With the U.S. national average for a gallon reaching a record high of $6.53 this week, Governor Kay Ivey has directed the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) to ease enforcement on dyed diesel fuel for the next 120 days to relieve the state’s agricultural and timber communities.
Dyed diesel fuel is a tax-exempt fuel normally reserved for off-road equipment and machinery.
In a letter sent Thursday, Sept. 24 to ALEA Secretary Taylor, Gov. Ivey stated, “The increase in diesel fuel prices has been particularly sharp relative to other fuel prices, directly affecting Alabama’s agricultural and timber industries. In response to these extraordinary circumstances, I am requesting that (ALEA) and other enforcement agencies temporarily adjust its enforcement priorities concerning the use of dyed diesel fuel.”
Relief For Farming and Timber
With Alabama’s harvest season running through mid November, this relief will be welcomed by the state’s farmers.
“As we are in the beginning of peak harvest season in Alabama, I am committed to doing what we can to support our state’s farmers and their families,” said Governor Ivey. “When we can responsibly provide relief, I am all for it, and this is a measured, doable and commonsense action to help out Alabama’s agricultural and timber communities.”
ALEA’s enforcement changes are effective immediately.
“Governor Ivey’s directive provides a practical and timely measure to support Alabama’s farmers and timber operators as they navigate the impact of increased fuel costs,” said Secretary Taylor. “These industries are vital to Alabama’s economy and to communities throughout our state. ALEA is committed to implementing the governor’s directive while maintaining our steadfast focus on public safety and ensuring Alabama’s roadways remain safe for all who travel them.”
The governor also instructed Alabama Department of Revenue Commissioner Mary Martin Mitchell to request dyed diesel fuel penalty relief from the Internal Revenue Service.
Feds Ease HOS for Fuel Haulers
Last week, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration eased hours restrictions for fuel haulers. Eligible fuel haulers may drive up to 16 hours in a 24-hour period under a new federal waiver intended to give gasoline and diesel carriers more flexibility during ongoing global supply disruptions and high fall demand.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration issued the waiver on Sept. 16, and it will remain effective through 11:59 p.m. Dec. 16. It applies ONLY to motor carriers and drivers transporting gasoline or diesel fuel in interstate commerce.
For Alabama fleets, the relief could increase the number of fuel deliveries that can be completed during a shift, but it is not a blanket suspension of federal hours-of-service rules. Carriers must satisfy detailed rest, eligibility, documentation and crash-reporting conditions.
