FRANKFORT, KY (Oct. 5, 2026) – Agriculture Commissioner Jonathan Shell issued the following statement applauding President Trump’s executive order allowing off-road dyed diesel to be used on public highways and deferring the applicable federal excise tax:

“Huge win for Kentucky farmers. President Trump signed an executive order expanding access to tax-exempt red-dyed diesel. With harvest underway and high fuel costs weighing on farm families, this will provide immediate relief and help lower costs. Thank you, President Trump, for standing with our farmers.”

BACKGROUND:

Last week, Commissioner Shell called for loosened dyed diesel restrictions to help Kentucky farmers manage fuel costs during the remainder of the fall harvest season. Commissioner Shell urged the Governor, with the consent of the Attorney General, to temporarily allow farm vehicles to use dyed diesel on public roads while harvesting and transporting agricultural products.