Boening issued the statement from Waco, thanking Abbott for addressing fuel costs through the declaration. The move lets agricultural haulers run dyed diesel, normally restricted to off-road use, on public roads.
Boening said Texas farmers and ranchers are dealing with steep fuel costs tied to producing food, fiber and fuel. Dyed diesel costs less than regular on-road diesel because it skips certain taxes. Letting it fuel road vehicles temporarily cuts a real expense for anyone hauling farm goods. Raising weight limits means fewer trips are needed to move the same amount of crops, timber or fuel, which can save money and time during a season when margins are already tight.
The declaration does not change the underlying fuel prices squeezing agriculture across the state. It just gives producers more flexibility to work around them, at least for now.