Why It Matters
South Dakota farmers face elevated fuel costs during the critical harvest window, prompting state leadership to adjust transportation regulations. The policy shift attempts to balance logistical relief for producers against infrastructure concerns and political pressures.
What Happened
Gov. Larry Rhoden issued an executive order modifying weight restrictions for agricultural transport during the current harvest season. The directive permits producers to haul crops, livestock, and other agricultural commodities at 10% above standard weight limits. This allowance previously applied only to trips from fields to grain bins; the new order extends it to journeys from bins to elevators, feedlots, ethanol plants, and other processing facilities.
The executive action also suspends a $25 overweight trip permit fee. Rhoden’s administration clarified that the governor lacks the statutory authority to suspend the state diesel tax, which is fixed at 28 cents per gallon by law. Instead, Rhoden can only suspend administrative rules during declared emergencies.
Reactions from agricultural leaders were mixed. Scott VanderWal, president of the South Dakota Farm Bureau, acknowledged the limitations of the move but noted it provides some relief. Conversely, Doug Sombke, president of the South Dakota Farmers Union, argued the measure falls short compared to neighboring states’ actions.
By the Numbers
10% — Weight restriction allowance for hauling agricultural products under Rhoden’s order.
$25 — Amount of the suspended overweight trip permit.
90-day — Duration of the diesel tax pause announced by Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen.
25% — Weight limit allowance for ag producers in Nebraska.
250 gallons — Typical fuel capacity of most trucks.
$6 — Average per-gallon diesel price in South Dakota.
28 cents — State law-set diesel tax per gallon in South Dakota.
Zoom Out
The policy divergence between South Dakota and Nebraska highlights differing approaches to agricultural support. Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen announced a 90-day pause on diesel taxes for producers hauling during harvest, allowing farmers to submit fuel receipts for refunds. Nebraska also permits agricultural producers to haul at 25% above the weight limit, double the allowance in South Dakota.
Sombke stated that Nebraska’s response is superior to what South Dakota producers are receiving. The average diesel price in South Dakota stands at $6 per gallon, and most trucks hold approximately 250 gallons of fuel, making tax relief a significant financial factor for operators.
Broader economic concerns also weigh on producers. Charlie Johnson, a Lake County organic grain producer, cited the war in Iran and volatile tariff policy as having long-lasting effects on bottom lines. Johnson criticized Rhoden’s directive as an effort to win votes before the general election, expressing concern that heavier loads will damage roadways.
What’s Next
Rhoden is running for re-election against Democratic challenger Dan Ahlers, a former state lawmaker from Dell Rapids. Ahlers has called for leaders to stand up against federal policies, including the war in Iran, tariffs, and importing beef. In a debate at the start of the month, Rhoden stated he disagrees with President Trump’s push to import beef.
Rhoden’s teams are reviewing potential actions by the Trump Administration and other states for further steps. On Sept. 21, Rhoden submitted a letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins recommending the reinstatement of the Agricultural Advisory Committee. Rhoden formerly served on that committee in 2016.
Ian Fury, a spokesperson for Rhoden’s campaign, said the governor understands diesel prices impact farmers. Rhoden became governor in 2025 after former Gov. Kristi Noem resigned. The administration continues to navigate regulatory constraints while addressing producer concerns about fuel costs and transport efficiency.