Governor Gianforte Lifts Regulations for Hay Delivery to Support Montana Farmers and Ranchers

Governor's Office

HELENA, Mont. - Governor Greg Gianforte today issued an executive order that temporarily suspends hours of service regulations for certain carriers to facilitate and expedite the delivery of hay to Montana's farmers and ranchers.

A persistent, multi-year drought has impacted forage production and threatened the ability for farmers and ranchers to get hay necessary to support continued livestock operations. Waiving hours of service requirements ensures that producers can transport greater volumes in a short timeframe to prepare for the winter months ahead.

"With the persistent drought, it was essential that we eliminate any roadblocks that threaten the viability of our producers and their operations," Gov. Gianforte said. "Through this executive order, we will ease motor vehicle restrictions to help producers get hay where they need it to go, including certain weight and other vehicle restrictions that would otherwise limit the size of their loads."

"When our producers are facing tight supplies and economic pressures, they do not need to also battle regulatory provisions that can slow down the essential movement of feed," said Montana Department of Agriculture Director Jillien Streit. "I appreciate Governor Gianforte lifting service requirements around hay delivery ensuring that our farmers and ranchers can do more with their precious time as it can be a bottleneck in volatile times like these."

Under Title 10, MCA, the governor may suspend provisions of regulatory statute, agency rule, requirement, or standard if strict compliance would prevent necessary action in coping with emergencies.

The order is effective August 31, 2026, to September 13, 2026, and can be viewed here.

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