Virginia Temporarily Lifts Public-Road Restrictions on Red-Dye Diesel
Virginia has temporarily lifted restrictions on the use of red-dye diesel fuel on public roads to provide relief amid rising fuel costs. The executive directive, signed by Governor Abigail Spanberger, is in effect until December 31st.
Norfolk Portsmouth Newport News, VA, October 19, 2026 —
Virginia has temporarily lifted restrictions on using red-dye diesel fuel on public roads, according to a summary of an executive directive signed by Gov. Abigail Spanberger. The measure is intended to provide relief amid rising fuel costs and is set to remain in effect until Dec. 31.
The summary does not specify the year in which the directive expires. It also does not identify which drivers, vehicles or uses are covered, or describe how the temporary change will be implemented. The scope provided is limited to the use of red-dye diesel on public roads.
No figures were provided for the increase in fuel costs or for the expected financial relief. The summary also does not describe the restrictions that applied before the directive, explain whether any conditions or exceptions accompany the temporary change, or provide details about enforcement.
The directive’s stated purpose is to offer relief amid rising fuel costs. The available information does not quantify the impact or indicate whether the measure will be extended beyond Dec. 31. Those details, along with any further explanation from the governor’s office, were not included in the summary.
For now, the reported change is temporary and tied to the date stated in the directive. Additional specifics about its practical application were not provided.
Story summarized from the original created by WTKR Web Staff on www.wtkr.com, see more information here.
