CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Governor Patrick Morrisey declared a 60-day state of emergency across all 55 West Virginia counties Tuesday, October 20, in response to rising diesel fuel prices and limited supplies.
Morrisey also signed an executive order temporarily allowing the use of red-dyed diesel fuel on highways without certain state penalties, a move expected to save businesses and drivers 20.5 cents per gallon.
According to AAA, the average price of diesel in West Virginia reached $6.34 per gallon Tuesday, compared to $3.57 at the same time last year.
“Making West Virginia more affordable means looking for every opportunity to help families keep more of their hard-earned money,” said Governor Morrisey. “Transportation costs affect the prices we pay at the grocery store and throughout our economy. Today, we’re giving businesses and citizens an opportunity to lower those costs, so that savings will benefit West Virginia families.”
Red-dyed diesel is typically used in off-road equipment and is generally less expensive than regular highway diesel. Under the temporary relief, a truck purchasing 200 gallons could save approximately $41 per fill-up.
The executive order suspends certain penalties associated with using red-dyed diesel on highways and directs state agencies to stop fuel inspections specifically intended to detect its use.
The action follows an October 5 executive order signed by President Donald Trump providing temporary federal relief for highway use of red-dyed diesel.
Morrisey said the measure is intended to help industries that rely heavily on diesel fuel, including coal mining, natural gas, agriculture, forestry and trucking.
“The unprecedented rise in fuel costs for surface mining and coal haulage have added to the challenges facing West Virginia coal. The suspension will reduce cost pressure and help us compete in a very difficult market,” said Chris Hamilton, president and CEO of the West Virginia Coal Association.
The state of emergency will remain in effect for 60 days unless ended earlier.
The executive order takes effect immediately. West Virginia’s motor fuel excise tax and commercial vehicle safety inspections will remain in effect.
