Governor Gianforte Issues Executive Order to Extend Federal Fuel Hauling Flexibility to Montana Carriers

Governor's Office

HELENA, Mont. - Governor Greg Gianforte today issued Executive Order 10-2026 to adopt federal regulations issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (MFCSA) of the U.S. Department of Transportation to waive certain hours-of-service requirements to ensure the adequate and timely delivery of gasoline and diesel fuel.

"Montana families, farmers, and businesses depend on a steady, reliable supply of gasoline and diesel," Gov. Gianforte said. "This order makes sure our in-state fuel haulers can operate under the same rules as interstate drivers, so fuel keeps moving without unnecessary red tape."

The FMCSA issued a waiver on September 16 to give interstate fuel truck drivers additional flexibility under federal hours-of-service rules in response to anticipated fuel demand increases and ongoing global supply chain pressures. The federal waiver specifically invited states to extend the same relief to drivers operating within their borders.

Under the executive order, the Montana Department of Transportation's Motor Carrier Services Division will apply the same hours-of-service terms to intrastate gasoline and diesel haulers that FMCSA already applies to interstate carriers, including required rest breaks and driver safety protections. The order does not apply to any other type of cargo and leaves all other state and federal safety requirements in place.

The order takes effect immediately and remains in effect through December 16, 2026, matching the duration of the federal waiver, unless extended, rescinded, or otherwise modified.

The executive order can be viewed here.

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