Texas – Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller praised the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for issuing new guidance aimed at protecting farmers, truckers, and other diesel equipment operators from sudden power and speed losses caused by diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) systems, while maintaining environmental standards.
The guidance, announced by EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin and U.S. Small Business Administrator Kelly Loeffler at the Iowa State Fair, directs engine and equipment manufacturers to update DEF system software in existing vehicles and equipment. The updates are intended to prevent abrupt shutdowns and allow operators more time to address maintenance needs, ensuring productivity and safety in the field and on the road.
Commissioner Miller noted that abrupt DEF shutdowns have caused significant disruptions for Texas farmers, ranchers, and truckers during critical periods such as planting, harvest, and hauling. He said the previous rules were estimated to cost family farms and small businesses roughly $727 million annually in lost productivity, repair and service expenses, missed deadlines, penalties, and crop quality losses.
“Texas agriculture runs on hard work and diesel power, not government red tape,” Miller said. “This action will strengthen the economy of rural Texas and provide farmers and ranchers the relief they’ve been asking for.”
The new guidance is expected to reduce costly equipment shutdowns, improve efficiency, and support the overall productivity of agricultural operations across Texas.
