hay-lift

BISMARCK, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Governor Doug Burgum signed an executive order Thursday to wave certain load requirements to help the state’s farmers and ranchers.

The order waves hours of service requirements, fees and certain load restrictions for drivers of commercial vehicles transporting hay and livestock. It follows record fall precipitation and cold temperatures that have adversely affected ranchers and livestock producers, causing inadequate hay supplies to sustain livestock herds.

“Producers have been forced to purchase supplemental hay from other states, move herds to areas where feed supplies are more plentiful or, in extreme cases, sell off their herds. Truck drivers have had to move hay supplies in greater volumes and shorter times to meet the needs,” the order explains.

The waiver is in effect for 30-days and suspends hours of service restrictions; weight, width and height restrictions; and fees for drivers of commercial vehicles transporting hay supplies and livestock on interstate and state roadways.

All road safety and vehicle compliance regulations still apply.