News

Ahead of Irma, ag chief loosens farm truck rules

By Bill Moss, Published: September 7, 2017

Ahead of Hurricane Irma, Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler has waived the weighing of farm trucks and loosened driving rules so that farmers can harvest as much of their crops as possible before a potential storm landfall in the state.

“Hurricane Irma is a formidable storm that could result in severe economic loss of livestock, poultry and crops in our state," Troxler said. "At my recommendation and as allowed by state law, the Governor has directed the Department of Public Safety to temporarily suspend weighing vehicles used to transport livestock, poultry, feed and crops in the state."

“This Executive Order will allow our farmers the opportunity to harvest as much of their crops as possible before the storm hits. The order also will help ensure that livestock, poultry, crops and feed can be moved as necessary. The order also temporarily suspends the maximum hours of service for drivers.

“In addition to the waiving of motor vehicle regulations, our department is temporarily suspending health certificate requirements on livestock traveling through the state from areas in Hurricane Irma’s path.

“I urge everyone to prepare for this storm. Check your generators, fuel and emergency kits. We don’t know what impact this storm will have yet on our state. But we do know that preparation saves lives and protects property.”