Governor’s Action Provides Harvest Relief For Missouri Farmers

Posted on: Sep 30, 2026

The Missouri Corn Growers Association appreciates Gov. Mike Kehoe's action to help Missouri farmers manage rising fuel and transportation costs during harvest.

Gov. Kehoe signed Executive Order 26-19 today, declaring a State of Emergency and temporarily allowing farmers and haulers in commercial vehicles licensed for farm use to use red-dyed diesel for agricultural purposes on Missouri state highways. The order also adjusts commercial vehicle weight limitations for agricultural transportation, increasing the allowable weight from 88,000 to 90,000 pounds.

"Missouri farmers are working hard to get this year's crop out of the field, but higher fuel costs are making an already tough year even tougher," said Missouri Corn CEO Bradley Schad. "We appreciate Gov. Kehoe recognizing the challenges farmers are facing and taking steps to provide additional flexibility during harvest."

Red-dyed diesel is commonly used for off-road agricultural purposes. Under the executive order, the temporary relief is effective today and expires Oct. 30, 2026, unless extended in whole or in part. Allowing farmers and haulers in commercial vehicles licensed for farm use to use dyed diesel for agricultural purposes on state highways gives producers another option to manage fuel costs and availability during harvest.

Missouri Corn has been working with state officials to find solutions as farmers face rising costs across the board. The increased weight allowance will also help move more grain with fewer trips. Eligible harvest loads will be allowed to reach 90,000 pounds, subject to the requirements of the order, applicable routes and bridge restrictions.

"Missouri farmers are doing everything they can to make this harvest work," Schad said. "We appreciate the governor's continued partnership in looking at all options to help keep the combines rolling."

The executive order addresses Missouri enforcement and does not waive federal restrictions on dyed diesel or authorize its use on interstates or U.S. highways where prohibited by federal law. Farmers should review the executive order for effective dates, eligibility requirements, and restrictions before using dyed diesel in highway vehicles.

For more information, visit governor.mo.gov.