Pritzker declares Illinois a diesel disaster area, but fuel retailers are wary

[Viable Food News Desk]

Publisher: Capitol News Illinois
Published: October 7, 2026
Source: Read at Capitol News Illinois
Category: Food Access

On October 7, 2026, Gov. JB Pritzker declared Illinois a disaster area over rising diesel costs and directed state agencies not to impose penalties for selling or using red-dyed diesel fuel through Dec. 31. Illinois diesel prices rose from $3.73 to $6.64, a 78% average increase, according to AAA Fuel Prices. Nate Harris, CEO of the Illinois Fuel and Retailer Association, said retailers need federal and state clarification and advised them not to use the dyed fuel because they could face criminal penalties. Pritzker also directed the Illinois Department of Transportation to consider extending the Illinois Harvest Permit program into 2027.

Why this matters: Independent fuel retailers may face compliance and liability risks while the waiver rules remain unclear. Higher diesel costs can also raise operating expenses for grocery stores and other businesses that depend on fuel deliveries.

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