SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) -- A new policy put into effect due to drought conditions in Illinois means farmers will be able to transport hay loads on interstates.

Illinois Transportation Secretary Ann Schneider on Friday announced that workers will be able to transport hay loads up to 12-feet wide on all state routes and interstates. State transportation officials say this will make processing and transporting hay more efficient. The drought hurt hay production in the state.

Schneider says farmers and truck drivers will be able to cut transportation costs and travel times throughout the rest of harvest season. Those moving hay loads will need a copy of an official authorization.

The new policy takes effect immediately. It expires Dec. 31.

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Online: http://www.dot.il.gov/road/overweight.html