Governor Whitmer Declares Energy Emergency to Lower Gas Prices After Iran War Disrupts Fuel Supply

Governor Whitmer Declares Energy Emergency to Lower Gas Prices After Iran War Disrupts Fuel Supply

LANSING, Mich. — In response to skyrocketing gas prices driven by tariffs and the ongoing war in Iran, Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued Executive Order 2026-4 on April 2, declaring an energy emergency across Michigan. The order aims to save drivers money at the pump by easing restrictions on fuel blends, allowing for the sale of higher vapor pressure gasoline which is typically 10 to 20 cents cheaper per gallon.

Rising Gas Prices Hit Hard Across Michigan

The executive order comes as gas prices climb sharply statewide, with average prices reaching $3.89 per gallon, up from $2.99 last month. According to the governor's office, this represents approximately a 30 percent increase. West Michigan drivers are paying 97 cents more per gallon than they were a month ago and 82 cents more than this time last year.

"The Iran war has thrown global oil markets into turmoil, shutting down the Strait of Hormuz, once one of the world's busiest fuel shipping corridors, handling up to 21 million barrels of oil per day," a release from the governor's office stated. "The ripple effects hit Michigan motorists hard."

What the Executive Order Does

Executive Order 2026-4 specifically suspends a May 1 requirement for lower vapor pressure gasoline in eight Michigan counties: Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw, Livingston, St. Clair, Monroe, and Lenawee. These counties represent roughly five million residents, nearly half of Michigan's population.

The change opens access to less expensive fuel blends, putting money back in drivers' pockets. Areas outside these eight counties may also see savings because they are already permitted to sell cheaper blends without seeking a waiver.

"Right now, countless Michigan families are struggling with rising costs on the essentials, from groceries to gas," Governor Whitmer said. "As governor, I can't end a war overseas or undo bad policies at the federal level that led to higher gas prices, but I will do what I can to try to give families a break. To provide relief, I'm issuing an executive order taking a few actions with one aim: saving drivers money at the pump."

Federal Waiver Aligns Michigan with EPA Standards

The order follows action at the federal level. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued a temporary waiver suspending federal vapor pressure requirements, clearing the way for the production, distribution, and sale of a wider range of gasoline blends. Executive Order 2026-4 brings Michigan in line with that federal waiver, expanding the pool of available gasoline and driving down costs for motorists across the state.

West Michigan Impact

While the executive order specifically names eight counties in Southeast Michigan, West Michigan drivers can expect similar savings. Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Muskegon, Holland, and Battle Creek residents are already in counties that permit the sale of cheaper fuel blends without requiring a waiver, meaning these drivers will see price reductions immediately without waiting for the order to take effect.

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is monitoring fuel prices and quality statewide. Anyone who suspects problems at the pump is encouraged to call MDARD's 24-hour hotline for reporting complaints at 1-800-MDA-FUEL (1-800-632-3835).

Governor's Broader Economic Message

In addition to the energy emergency order, Governor Whitmer used the press release to call for legislative action on several other economic issues. She urged the Michigan legislature to pass a budget that continues tax cuts for working families and retirees, delivers property tax relief for seniors, and gives Michigan families a sales tax holiday on school supplies.

"This is yet another reason the legislature needs to pass a budget that continues tax cuts for working families and retirees, delivers property tax relief for seniors, and gives Michigan families a sales tax holiday on school supplies," Whitmer said. "Let's keep working together to lower costs and provide relief."

What Drivers Should Know

The executive order is effective immediately. Michigan drivers can expect to see price reductions at gas stations across the state within days, though actual prices may vary by location and individual gas station pricing decisions.

MDARD is also reminding drivers that the temporary federal waiver issued by the EPA applies to the production, distribution, and sale of different gasoline blends. This ensures Michigan can access a broader pool of gasoline while maintaining fuel quality and safety standards.

For additional information on MDARD's Motor Fuel Quality Program, drivers can visit the department's Gasoline Information page on its website.

Looking Ahead

As Michigan continues to navigate the economic challenges posed by global instability, the state government is working to provide relief to residents facing higher costs on essentials. The energy emergency order represents one action the governor can take immediately, but broader economic solutions will require legislative action and sustained cooperation across Michigan's political landscape.

West Michigan families, like those across the state, are hoping these measures will help ease the financial burden of rising gas prices while the global situation stabilizes.