Truckers and farmers working around Van Alstyne can use red-dyed diesel on public roads under a temporary order from Gov. Greg Abbott. The Sept. 28 statewide disaster proclamation lifts state restrictions and penalties on the off-road fuel, which is sold without motor fuel tax, as diesel prices run near record levels.
Abbott's office said the fuel tax is not waived. The proclamation also allows trucks hauling fuel, crops and timber to carry up to 95,000 pounds without the usual permits. Across the river, Oklahoma has paused its own enforcement for 120 days.
In comments to KTEN, Grayson County Commissioner Josh Marr said the change could help hold down costs that reach local stores. He acknowledged that heavier loads may wear county roads somewhat faster but said the county can handle it.
