WHEREAS, in the past, South Carolina farmers have experienced severe crop and livestock losses due to bad weather and drought; and

WHEREAS, farmers from other states have assisted South Carolina farmers during these difficult times by contributing seed, hay, and other essentials; and

WHEREAS, farmers in the State of Florida are now experiencing severe losses as a result of drought and poor weather; and

WHEREAS, the citizens of South Carolina are now assisting drought-stricken farmers in Florida and are anxious to contribute further; and

WHEREAS, volunteers wish to truck hay on a nonprofit basis to the drought-stricken farmers; and

WHEREAS, such contemplated loads may violate the licensed vehicle weight requirements of South Carolina; and

WHEREAS, the State of South Carolina wishes to expeditiously and conveniently provide relief to the farmers of Florida.

NOW, THEREFORE, I hereby direct the South Carolina Department of Public Safety to place a moratorium on the licensed vehicle weight and fuel tax marker requirements for those vehicles designated by the United States Department of Agriculture, Farm Services Agency, to transport donated hay to other states on the interstate highway system of South Carolina; however, the overall gross vehicle weight shall not exceed ninety thousand (90,000) pounds and will include a maximum single axle weight not to exceed twenty thousand (20,000) pounds and a maximum tandem axle weight not to exceed forty thousand (40,000) pounds.

This Order shall be effective immediately for a period of seven days.

GIVEN UNDER MY HAND AND THE GREAT SEAL OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, THIS 27TH DAY OF JULY, 1998.

DAVID M. BEASLEY
Governor

Last Updated: Tuesday, July 7, 2009 at 11:19 A.M.