Governor Larry Rhoden Grants Weight Relief to South Dakota Farmers
Governor Larry Rhoden signed an executive order allowing agricultural haulers to exceed weight limits to reduce fuel costs amid record-high diesel prices.
Larry Rhoden, the Governor of South Dakota, signed Executive Order 2026-11 on September 29, 2026, to provide financial relief to farmers and ranchers struggling with record-high diesel fuel prices. The order permits farmers and haulers to transport livestock, crops, and other agricultural commodities at up to 10% above standard highway weight limits.
This measure aims to lower overall fuel expenses by reducing the total number of trips required for transport. As part of the relief package, the state is waiving the $25 overweight trip permit fee.
Governor Rhoden also directed the South Dakota Department of Revenue and Regulation to monitor regional diesel supplies. The administration stated it will evaluate potential tax refunds if producers are forced to purchase taxed on-road diesel because of shortages in tax-exempt dyed fuel.
