BISMARCK, N.D. – To help ranchers struggling with abnormally wet conditions for this time of year, Gov. Doug Burgum today signed an executive order waiving hours of service requirements, fees and certain load restrictions for drivers of commercial vehicles transporting hay and livestock.
Record fall precipitation and cold temperatures 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 30-day waiver is effective today. It 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.
The order can be viewed online here, and a copy is attached.