Lincoln, Nebraska — Nebraska has declared a fuel emergency, temporarily suspending maximum driving time restrictions for commercial vehicles delivering gasoline, gasoline blends, diesel, fuel oil, ethanol, propane, and biodiesel within or into the state until May 15, 2026.
The decision follows weeks of escalating pressure on fuel supplies, forcing commercial motor carriers to drive additional miles and endure longer waits at terminals. The emergency declaration cites rising demand and limited storage capacity as the main drivers behind the crisis, which has already stretched the state's fuel distribution network to its limits.
Under the new rules, carriers can exceed the usual 11‑hour driving limit for up to 24 hours on the road, provided they are transporting fuel products. The state’s Department of Transportation issued the order on September 9, 2026, citing FMCSA regulations that allow emergency waivers when public safety or essential services are threatened. The waiver covers all types of petroleum products listed in the declaration and is set to expire on May 15, 2027.
What This Means for Drivers
CDL‑A holders and owner‑operators who specialize in fuel deliveries will be able to extend their routes without violating federal hours‑in‑service rules. The waiver allows drivers to keep moving when fuel stations run out of stock, reducing the need for unscheduled stops. However, drivers must still log all hours accurately and maintain compliance with rest‑break requirements.
Owner‑operators who rely on fuel contracts with regional distributors will see fewer bottlenecks at loading docks, potentially increasing their earnings per trip. Fleet managers can schedule deliveries more flexibly, avoiding the congestion that has plagued terminals across the state. OTR truck drivers who cross the Nebraska border will also benefit from the relaxed limits while transporting fuel into the state.
Industry Reaction
Major fuel distributors, including Phillips 66 and Marathon Petroleum, have welcomed the measure, noting that it will help keep their supply chains stable during the peak season. Trucking associations such as the American Trucking Associations have urged carriers to use the waiver responsibly, emphasizing that safety should remain the top priority.
Local trucking companies report that the temporary lift has already reduced wait times at key terminals in Omaha and Grand Island, allowing drivers to complete more deliveries in a single shift. The industry also anticipates that the waiver will ease the strain on the FMCSA’s enforcement resources during this critical period.
Key Points
- Nebraska declared a fuel emergency on September 9, 2026.
- Maximum driving time limits are suspended for fuel deliveries until May 15, 2027.
- The waiver covers gasoline, diesel, fuel oil, ethanol, propane, biodiesel, and gasoline blends.
- Carriers can exceed the usual 11‑hour limit for up to 24 hours while transporting fuel.
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