BISMARCK, N.D. - Gov. Doug Burgum signed an executive order Monday waiving hours of service restrictions for drivers of commercial vehicles transporting hay, water and livestock to help livestock producers battling harsh drought conditions. The order also eases weight limits for those hauling hay and water to support drought-stricken ranchers.
Livestock producers have been forced to bring in supplemental feed and water supplies from nondrought areas or move their herds to areas where forage and water are more plentiful, according to the North Dakota Office of the Governor.
“With no relief from dry conditions in sight, waiving the hours of service and easing weight restrictions will ensure that commercial haulers can move the greater volumes of food and water needed for producers to maintain their livestock, while also making it easier for ranchers to move their herds,” Burgum said
The order will remain in effect until further notice. All road safety and vehicle compliance regulations still apply.
