Trucking weight and time restrictions suspended in Kansas to battle drought

While truckers throughout the country must adhere to federal and state regulations of how much freight may be hauled and at what times these trips can take place, on occasion these laws are put aside due to emergencies. Recently, the Governor of Kansas temporarily lifted these restrictions to make sure truck drivers can carry the necessary equipment and supplies needed to parts of the state suffering from drought, reports The Associated Press.

Since the state is in the midst of a drought emergency, farmers are having a challenging time getting food for their livestock, which is causing some Kansas residents to struggle. Governor Sam Brownback decided to allow truckers to log extra hours and carry additional tonnage in their trucks to make sure farmers in need could receive enough hay for their animals.

Dale Rodman, Kansas' secretary of agriculture, says he applauds the Brownback's efforts to aid farmers hurting from the drought.

"This drought continues to take a toll on so many Kansas farmers and ranchers and we are committed to doing our part to improve Kansas agriculture's ability to adapt and recover," Rodman said.

According to the governor's website, the law will only be in effect until the drought subsides and conditions are again manageable.

Trucking weight and time restrictions suspended in Kansas to battle drought

Wednesday, August 3rd, 2011