WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — Federal regulators moved to remove long-standing barriers that limited farmers’ ability to repair their own equipment, issuing new guidance that affirms producers’ rights under existing environmental law. The announcement follows a joint press conference with the EPA, USDA, and the Small Business Administration focused on reducing regulatory friction in agriculture.
The Environmental Protection Agency clarified that the Clean Air Act allows equipment owners to temporarily bypass emissions systems when necessary to complete repairs, provided the machinery is returned to full compliance. EPA officials said some manufacturers had misused the law to restrict access to repair software and tools, forcing farmers to rely solely on authorized dealers and increasing downtime during critical planting and harvest windows.
The guidance applies to non-road diesel engines equipped with advanced emissions controls, including diesel exhaust fluid systems. EPA emphasized that the policy does not weaken emissions standards or alter the Clean Air Act; instead, it prevents misinterpretation from blocking routine maintenance and repairs.
USDA officials said equipment downtime can quickly translate into lost yields and higher costs, particularly during narrow weather windows. SBA estimates suggest that clearer right-to-repair rules could lower farm operating costs by up to 10 percent annually by reducing repair bills, transportation costs, and lost productivity.
Officials said the change should encourage continued use of newer, cleaner equipment while restoring flexibility for farmers and independent repair shops.
John Deere says it will soon make an override available to customers through its Operations Center. The National Sorghum Producers welcome the move, saying farmers deserve the flexibility to repair their equipment when it matters most.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Clear right-to-repair guidance reduces downtime, repair costs, and operational risk.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
Bayer’s Monsanto announces $7.25B class settlement for Roundup™ lawsuits alleging Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), covering claims over 21 years.
February 17, 2026 04:14 PM
·
Weskan Grain CEO Will Bramblett discusses the antitrust lawsuit filed by grain farmers and agribusinesses, and its potential implications on rail competition and market access.
February 17, 2026 01:41 PM
·
Roger McEowen with the Washburn School of Law reviews key highlights from the House Agriculture Committee’s latest farm bill proposal.
February 17, 2026 12:16 PM
·
The Action Aims to Lower Food Costs for Consumers and Strengthen the Supply Chain
February 17, 2026 11:09 AM
Ethanol output is improving, but weak domestic demand and export headwinds temper optimism about corn demand. Renewable Fuels Association President & CEO Geoff Cooper discusses the latest developments on Federal approval of year-round E15.
February 16, 2026 11:00 AM
·
Formally dubbed “Farm Bill 2.0” by committee leadership, the draft surfaces after a high-stakes legislative dance that saw much of the traditional farm bill’s funding, specifically for crop insurance and safety net programs, carved out and passed in last year’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA).
February 16, 2026 10:51 AM
·
The National Farm Machinery Show is underway in Louisville, Kentucky, bringing together the latest in agricultural equipment, technology, and innovation. Here are some highlights from the trade show floor so far!
February 13, 2026 05:15 PM
·
Ag Committee Chairman Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson has referred to the proposal as “Farm Bill 2.0.”
February 13, 2026 10:25 AM
·
AFBF Economist Samantha Ayoub discusses the latest data on Chapter 12 farm bankruptcy filings and what the troubling trend signals for the farm economy. At the same time, bigger loans and higher rates are squeezing working capital and increasing financial risk.
February 12, 2026 04:26 PM
·
