Sen. Deb Fischer Reintroduces Legislation to Update Livestock Hauling Rules

Sen. Deb Fischer reintroduces the HAULS Act to update hours-of-service exemptions and definitions affecting livestock and agricultural haulers. She joins us on Market Day Report to share more about her proposed legislation.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD-TV) — Senator Deb Fischer, R-NE, recently reintroduced legislation that would change federal hours of service rules in an effort to revamp the livestock hauling industry. The “HAULS Act” would update the application of those exemptions and the federal government’s definition of agricultural commodities.

Sen. Fischer joined us on Tuesday’s Market Day Report to walk through her legislation and discuss its implications for ag transportation.

In an interview with RFD-TV News, Sen. Fischer explains what prompted her to reintroduce the HAULS Act and how it differs from the House version, the “HELP Act.” She also explained how the proposed legislation would change the current hours-of-service exemptions for agricultural and livestock haulers and update the federal definition of “agricultural commodity” and the products included. She also shared what the 150 Air Mile Exemption would accomplish on the haul destination side of the bill.

Finally, Fischer outlined the next steps for the bill and how producers and haulers can help advance the legislation.

Related Stories
The specific provision in the CO₂ storage law allowed the North Dakota Industrial Commission (NDIC) to authorize carbon storage projects to proceed even if they lacked unanimous consent from all affected landowners.
Stronger sorghum genetics could enhance the resilience of bioenergy crops and broaden production options for growers in harsher climates.
American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) economist Danny Munch joined us on Thursday’s Market Day Report to break down the scope of the U.S. Christmas Tree industry and what growers are up against.
Rising beef supplies and lower cattle prices, weaker hog markets, and softening dairy prices will shape producer margins heading into 2026.
Canadian tariffs would raise costs for potash, ammonia, and UAN, increasing spring fertilizer risk.
Lewis Williamson with HTS Commodities breaks down the outlook on grain storage and domestic supply chain strength as producers weigh planting decisions with forthcoming federal aid.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Today, we honor the courage, dedication, and service of the men and women of the United States Armed Forces by taking a closer look at their commitment and teamwork in action.
Lucia Ruano, USMEF’s Central America representative, discusses what is driving demand for U.S. beef and pork in the region.
Tyson expects another year of beef-segment losses due to tight cattle supplies, even as chicken, pork, and prepared foods strengthen overall margins.
One Iowa man’s story is a powerful reminder of service, sacrifice, and home.
Team Kubota’s Nick Hatfield joins us to talk about the Summit Cup — the fourth and final event in Major League Fishing’s Fishing Clash Team Series presented by Bass Pro Shops.
If the House concurs and the President signs, USDA services and farm-bill programs resume at full speed with authorities extended for another year.