The hurricane and subsequent flooding in Texas this week has prompted Kansas to take action to assist and expedite disaster recovery efforts. On Aug. 30, Governor Sam Brownback signed an executive order to lift regulations on motor carriers traveling from and through Kansas en route to aid in recovery from widespread damage left by Hurricane Harvey.

Executive Order 17-03 will only apply to motor carriers and persons operating commercial motor vehicles who are directly participating in relief and restoration efforts in Texas. It will temporarily suspend licensing, certification and permitting rules and regulations; registration and fuel tax permits; and will waive fees for over dimension/overweight permits. In addition, height and weight limits for participating motor carriers have been extended to 12 feet in width and 14 feet, six inches in height.

This action will help Kansans who wish to provide hay and other supplies to help farmers and ranchers in Texas during recovery from Hurricane Harvey, as well as others who are traveling through Kansas in the relief efforts.

The Kansas Department of Agriculture has created a page on the KDA website for Hurricane Harvey Disaster Recovery Resources, which includes the full Executive Order along with contact information for a variety of ways to help with disaster relief. Go to www.agriculture.ks.gov/hurricanerecovery.