Full Breakdown
Texas Governor Declares Disaster to Combat Soaring Diesel Prices
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Emergency Declaration and Policy Changes
Gov. Greg Abbott (R-Texas) issued a statewide disaster proclamation that lifts several environmental and transportation restrictions aimed at easing the diesel shortage. The order expands the use of red-dyed off-road diesel on public highways, suspends Texas Low-Emission Diesel (TxLED) rules to the level allowed by federal standards, and raises the allowable gross weight for fuel, agricultural and timber loads to 95,000 pounds. Abbott also sent a letter to EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin requesting a temporary waiver of federal ultra-low-sulfur diesel requirements under the Clean Air Act. The governor emphasized that the measures are intended to lower costs for farmers, truckers and consumers.
Background: Global Oil Market Pressures
The declaration follows a period of heightened global tension that has constrained oil supplies. Ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and the war in Ukraine have reduced crude deliveries to the United States, while a recent rejection of a diplomatic proposal concerning the Strait of Hormuz contributed to a spike in international oil prices. These factors have been cited by state officials as drivers of the current diesel price surge.
Data on Diesel Prices and Weight Limits
- The American Automobile Association (AAA) reported an average diesel price of $5.86 per gallon in Texas.
- Another AAA-based report placed the Texas average at $5.90 per gallon, with the national average at $6.45 per gallon.
- A statement from the governor’s office cited a record $5.97 per gallon price in September.
All three sources agree that Texas diesel prices are more than $2.70 higher than a year earlier. The weight limit increase to 95,000 pounds applies to fuel, agricultural and timber shipments, while bridge-weight restrictions and other safety rules remain in effect.
Official Statements & Responses
He argued that allowing dyed diesel—chemically identical to regular diesel but sold without the motor-fuel tax—to be used on roads will expand supply without altering the underlying 20-cent-per-gallon fuel tax. The governor’s request to the EPA seeks a temporary Clean Air Act waiver to further increase available diesel.
EPA response timing was not detailed in the sources.
Criticism & Opposition
Democratic state Rep. Gina Hinojosa called on Abbott to waive the state gas tax entirely, arguing that the governor lacks authority to unilaterally lift taxes.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Diesel price figures differ among sources: $5.86 (AAA via Texas Tribune), $5.90 (AAA via The Epoch Times), and $5.97 (governor’s office statement reported by Dallas Express).
- No information was provided on whether the EPA has granted the requested waiver or on the timeline for any such decision.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Texas agriculture and freight run on diesel,” — Gov. Greg Abbott — Gov. Greg Abbott