Story perspectives

Stitt Orders 120-Day Eased Enforcement on Dyed Diesel

By Drooid · Sep 30, 2026, 6:11 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Governor Kevin Stitt ordered Oklahoma agencies to ease dyed-diesel enforcement for 120 days.
Oklahoma diesel averaged $5.92 per gallon on Sept. 29, up from $3.22 a year earlier.
Farm leaders say diesel prices are the highest ever and strain harvest work.
Rep. Ashley Hinson proposes pausing diesel exports, suspending the federal gas tax, and a farmer relief program.

History

Historical Context

The 1973 oil embargo, triggered when OPEC nations halted exports to the United States, caused gasoline prices to triple by October 1973. President Richard Nixon’s administration reported a 300% increase in crude costs, while Saudi Arabia and other Arab producers secured $12 per barrel, up from $3. Today, Governor Kevin Stitt’s 120-day diesel-relief order mirrors Nixon’s emergency measures, as Oklahoma farmers face $5.92-per-gallon diesel, the highest recorded. The precedent suggests that sharp fuel spikes can prompt swift policy actions, potentially reshaping agricultural economics and prompting future federal tax adjustments.

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Story summary

Governor Kevin Stitt ordered Oklahoma agencies to ease dyed-diesel enforcement for 120 days.
Oklahoma diesel averaged $5.92 per gallon on Sept. 29, up from $3.22 a year earlier.
Farm leaders say diesel prices are the highest ever and strain harvest work.
Rep. Ashley Hinson proposes pausing diesel exports, suspending the federal gas tax, and a farmer relief program.

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