Published on October 8, 2026 9:36 am
Last Updated on October 8, 2026 9:36 am
State Representatives and Illinois farmers Blaine Wilhour (Beecher City), Brad Halbrook (Shelbyville), Brad Fritts (Dixon), Charlie Meier (Okawville), Chris Miller (Hindsboro), Dan Swanson
(Alpha), Jason R. Bunting (Emington), and Wayne Rosenthal (Morrisonville) issued the following statement
after President Donald J. Trump’s Executive Order addressing dyed diesel and Governor JB Pritzker’s corresponding action in Illinois:
“We appreciate President Trump taking the lead to provide relief to farmers facing rising diesel costs. Farmers across Illinois are feeling the pinch from every direction. While this is a step in the right direction, Illinois needs to take a more proactive approach to lower the cost of doing business and keep the top industry
in Illinois competitive.
“Washington has made it clear that they are willing to work with states to provide relief from the diesel crisis, and Illinois should take advantage of every opportunity to lower the cost of living. As the Illinois Farm Bureau continues to work with the Department of Revenue to fully understand any future motor fuel tax implications, we will continue to work to make life more affordable for Illinois families. At the end of the day, a strong agricultural community means a strong Illinois.
“We are also working to address the practical challenges farmers could face when the temporary authorization expires on January 1, 2027, particularly how enforcement will be handled and what happens to residual dyed diesel that may remain in farm equipment and fuel systems after the authorization expires.”
