Gov. Beshear takes step to lower diesel prices for farmers and truckers

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Gov. Andy Beshear has declared a state of emergency that would allow Kentucky farmers and truckers to use untaxed or dyed diesel fuel on public roadways to provide relief from rising costs.

According to the governor’s office, Beshear made the announcement on Wednesday.

Officials say the rising fuel costs are due to the ongoing war in Iran. Pending sign-off from the Kentucky attorney general, officials say the order would go into effect Thursday, Oct. 8.

“The President’s war of choice and unlawful tariffs have caused prices to skyrocket for hardworking Americans – including here in Kentucky – and I have taken urgent action to help families across the commonwealth, including farmers, by lowering gas and diesel prices, suspending the gas tax increase and more,” said Beshear. “This has been a priority for me, and I am glad to see other leaders recognize that steps need to be taken to help hardworking families across our commonwealth and country.”

The order follows after President Donald Trump signed an executive order that loosened federal restrictions and allowed the use of tax-exempt, dyed diesel on roadways, officials say.

Beshear’s office says his order will continue “until the end of the war in Iran or the expiration of the president’s executive order on December 31, 2026, whichever is earliest.”

News 40 will provide additional updates on this order as they are released.