Commissioner Staples applauds waiver to ease hay transportation

Texas ranchers desperate for hay to feed their livestock during this drought are receiving some relief. As Texas ranchers struggle to feed their herds in the wake of some of the worst drought and wildfire conditions in state history, Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples sent a request to Gov. Rick Perry to direct the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDoT) to waive certain restrictions and permitting requirements to expedite the transport of hay. The waiver expires at midnight, August 4, with the possibility of a forthcoming extension if he renews the state's disaster proclamation on the day of the deadline. The TxDot waiver, which has been enacted numerous times in the past, temporarily suspends permitting requirements; legal height restrictions on round hay bales and associated permit fees for hay carriers. Public safety remains a priority and therefore dictates that all other legal requirements, including licensing, registration, insurance and safety precautions continue to be in place and monitored closely for compliance. The waiver also considers alternate routing wherever possible...more