Gov. Little issues executive order to help farmers during critical harvest season

BOISE, Idaho (KIFI) – Gov. Brad Little lifted inspections statewide on dyed diesel fuel for 30 days starting Friday, in an effort to assist farmers and ranchers in Idaho this harvest.

In an executive order titled “The Idaho Agriculture and Transportation Freedom Act,” he instructed Idaho State Police and Idaho Transportation Department to reduce red tape for ag producers by discontinuing state inspections of dyed diesel for this period.

“Idaho farmers and ranchers work hard to feed our families, our country, and the world,” Governor Little said. “President Trump has made cutting red tape a priority, and Idaho is doing the same. We will continue looking for ways to give our farmers, ranchers, and working men and women on the road more freedom to do what they do best.”

The change follows an executive order from President Donald Trump on Monday to “temporarily allow off-road ‘dyed’ diesel for highway use” while deferring federal taxes on the fuel.

“Idaho farmers and ranchers are facing high costs across the board, and expensive diesel is adding to the pressure during harvest,” Senate President Pro Tem Kelly Anthon said. ”This order provides some immediate relief while giving the state time to review these requirements and find a practical approach that supports our producers without adding unnecessary costs or red tape.” 

In the interim, the state will review its policies regarding dyed fuel enforcement, weigh how other states ensure compliance, and “recommend efficient, effective and practical inspection practices,” according to Little’s news release.

When purchasing dyed fuel, farmers are not required to pay federal and state highway taxes. It normally can only be used by off-road farm vehicles and not on highways.

The relief arrives as diesel approaches record prices. In Idaho, AAA reported Friday it sells for $6.415 a gallon. 

According to the Tax Foundation, Idaho’s gas tax is 33 cents a gallon.

“Our farmers and ranchers work long hours to put food on our tables and strengthen Idaho’s economy,” said House Speaker Mike Moyle. “They deserve a government that supports them. Suspending these inspections while the state reviews its policies is a practical approach that puts common sense first and gives Idaho producers one less thing to worry about during harvest.”’