BOISE — Idaho Gov. Brad Little signed an executive order Friday temporarily suspending state inspections for dyed diesel fuel for 30 days as state agencies review the policy during the fall harvest.
The order directs the Idaho State Police and Idaho Transportation Department to suspend inspections conducted under Idaho Code 49-676 while the agencies examine Idaho’s enforcement policies and compare them with practices in other states.
The review is expected to result in recommendations to Little on potential changes to the state’s inspection practices.
The statewide suspension also applies to agricultural areas in southeastern Idaho, including Franklin, Oneida and Bear Lake counties, where farming and ranching are major parts of the local economy.
“Idaho farmers and ranchers work hard to feed our families, our country, and the world,” Little said in a statement on Friday. “President Trump has made cutting red tape a priority, and Idaho is doing the same. We will continue looking for ways to give our farmers, ranchers, and working men and women on the road more freedom to do what they do best.”
Dyed diesel is generally used for off-road purposes, including agricultural equipment, and is subject to different tax and regulatory requirements than diesel used in highway vehicles.
Under Idaho law, qualifying commercial diesel-powered vehicles weighing more than 26,000 pounds can be inspected for dyed fuel at fixed or portable check stations or, in some circumstances, during another lawful traffic stop. State law prohibits Idaho State Police and ITD from establishing random inspection stations solely to test for dyed diesel.
Little’s order suspends those state inspection efforts for 30 days but does not exempt individuals or businesses from applicable federal laws, laws in other states or vehicle warranty requirements.
The governor’s office said the action follows President Donald Trump’s efforts to reduce federal regulations affecting farmers, ranchers and businesses. Legislative Republican leaders also backed the temporary suspension, citing fuel and other operating costs facing agricultural producers.
“Our farmers and ranchers work long hours to put food on our tables and strengthen Idaho’s economy,” House Speaker Mike Moyle said. “They deserve a government that supports them. Suspending these inspections while the state reviews its policies is a practical approach that puts common sense first and gives Idaho producers one less thing to worry about during harvest.”
Senate President Pro Tem Kelly Anthon said fuel costs have increased pressure on agricultural operations.
“Idaho farmers and ranchers are facing high costs across the board, and expensive diesel is adding to the pressure during harvest,” Anthon said. “This order provides some immediate relief while giving the state time to review these requirements and find a practical approach that supports our producers without adding unnecessary costs or red tape.”
The executive order will remain in effect for 30 calendar days unless Little rescinds or extends it.