Last week Governor Pritzker issued and order on dyed diesel fuel. Learn more from this article from Tammie Sloup, FarmWeek. Governor JB Pritzker Tuesday directed the Illinois Department of Revenue and Illinois State Police to not impose a penalty when dyed diesel fuel from bulk storage is sold or used on highway or state roads for agricultural purposes through the end of the year. The executive order also directs the Illinois Department of Revenue to request penalty relief from the IRS for the highway use of dyed diesel fuel, per President Donald Trump's executive order issued Oct. 5. The state order does not specifically excuse any motor fuel tax liability that may be owed. Illinois Farm Bureau is working with the Illinois Department of Revenue and other stakeholders to fully understand any future motor fuel tax implications. Red-dyed diesel is standard diesel fuel marked with a red dye to indicate it is tax‑exempt and legally restricted to off‑road use such as farming, construction, generators and marine/rail equipment. It is chemically the same as clear on‑road diesel but sold without highway fuel taxes. While Trump's executive order temporarily allows red-dyed diesel use on roads and defers federal diesel fuel tax payment obligations, it does not eliminate the federal tax liability. Legislative action would be needed to ultimately forgive the deferred federal tax. For the tax deferral to take effect, the U.S. Treasury Department is determining what authority it has under current law and whether congressional action will be needed when Congress returns from recess in November. Without legislative action farmers could still be liable for the taxes deferred from when the executive order goes into effect from Oct. 5 through Dec. 31. “Deferred is not waived,” IFB Associate Director of Transportation and Infrastructure Rodney Knittel told DeLoss Jahnke of the RFD Radio Network. “That doesn’t mean that you are not liable for the tax.” The federal diesel tax is about 24 cents per gallon, while Illinois’ motor fuel tax adds roughly 55 cents per gallon. The Illinois Department of Transportation also is directed to consider extending the Illinois Harvest Permit program into 2027 if diesel shortages and elevated costs persist. The program allows heavier truck weights on specified routes, helping agricultural producers transport goods more efficiently. FB is in communication with the White House and state officials to better understand the details and potential tax liability implications of the orders. Like the federal executive order, IFB maintains concerns about how enforcement will be handled beginning Jan. 1, 2027. It is unclear how enforcement will address the practical challenges associated with the physical characteristics of dyed diesel and any residual fuel that may remain in vehicle fuel systems when the temporary authorization expires. Illinois Farm Bureau will continue monitoring federal and state developments and will issue updated guidance. Additional questions can be directed to your county Farm Bureau.

Stephenson County Farm Bureau Annual Meeting November 16^th: We are excited to invite the Members of the Stephenson County Farm Bureau to our Annual Meeting on Monday, November 16^th at 7:00p.m. at our office. Our featured speaker will be Andrew McCrea. According to his website “Andrew brings his unparalleled insights to audiences…inspiring and motivating them to make real world differences in life From Alaska to Florida …speaking to groups from 10 to 10,000 …Andrew McCrea has brought his message to thousands – from audiences that consist of youth and collegiate participants to adult corporate and business audiences. Based upon his popular books, Andrew’s keynotes and training programs provide an insightful guide that inspires leadership at every level, and are delivered with energy, enthusiasm and expertise onstage. His blend of humor and real-life strategies for living life with purpose inspire groups to action.” Reservations are not required but appreciated by November 9^th by calling 815-232-3186 or email [email protected].

Carroll County Farm Bureau is hiring Administrative Assistant: This position is located at the Carroll County Farm Bureau building located at 811 S Clay Street in Mt. Carroll, IL. Position hours are 9:00a.m.-1:00p.m. Monday through Thursday (16 hours a week)

Requirements and skills:

• Great written and oral communication skills
• Proven experience working in an office setting
• Basic knowledge of office equipment, Microsoft office products including excel.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds occasionally
• Sage Accounting software is desired but not required.

Compensation:

• $17-20 an hour depending on experience
• Up to 40 hours of paid vacation a year.

Those interested in this position should submit a resume to Manager Victoria Hansen on or before October 30^th at [email protected] Applications will not be accepted by mail/in person. Please direct questions to Victoria at 815-244-3001 or by email at [email protected]

Membership Value Program Business Spotlight: Stockton Pit Stop located at 642 South Main Street, Stockton, IL offers Far Bureau members a 15% discount on entire bill for dine in or carryout. For more details please visit www.thepitstopstockton.com or call 815-947-5015.