Governor Whitmer Declares Energy Emergency to Save Michigan Drivers Money Amid Rising Gas Prices

Michigan Governor Issues Executive Order to Lower Gas Prices as Costs Hit $3.89 Per Gallon

LANSING — In response to skyrocketing gas prices driven by the war in Iran and federal tariffs, Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued Executive Order 2026-4 on April 2, declaring an energy emergency. The order aims to save Michigan drivers money at the gas pump by easing restrictions on fuel blends.

The Cost of Gas Has Nearly Doubled

Michigan drivers are paying approximately 30 percent more for gasoline than last month. The average price at the pump has jumped to $3.89 per gallon, up from $2.99 a month ago. This represents an increase of about 97 cents per gallon compared to this time last month, and 82 cents more than this time last year.

Gas prices in Michigan have not been this high since the summer of 2023, according to the governor's office.

Executive Order 2026-4 Targets Fuel Blends

The executive order suspends the May 1 requirement for lower vapor pressure gasoline in eight Michigan counties: Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw, Livingston, Monroe, St. Clair, and Lenawee. These counties account for approximately five million Michiganders, which translates to savings for nearly half of all drivers in the state.

The order allows for the sale of higher vapor pressure gasoline, which is typically 10 to 20 cents cheaper than the current fuel blend requirements.

Michigan drivers outside of these areas will see similar savings because they are already permitted to sell cheaper fuel blends without seeking a waiver.

Aligning with Federal Waiver

The United States Environmental Protection Agency has issued a temporary waiver of federal vapor pressure requirements to allow the production, distribution, and sale of different gasoline blends. Executive Order 2026-4 brings Michigan in line with this EPA waiver, enabling access to a broader pool of gasoline and saving motorists money.

Governor Whitmer's Statement

"Right now, countless Michigan families are struggling with rising costs on the essentials, from groceries to gas," said Governor Whitmer in a press release. "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."

The governor added that this action 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.

The Iran War Disrupted Global Oil Markets

The war in Iran has disrupted global oil markets and shut down the Strait of Hormuz, formerly one of the biggest global shipping corridors for fuel. The strait processed up to 21 million barrels of oil per day before the disruption.

As a result, gas prices have risen across Michigan, affecting commuters throughout the state, including those in West Michigan communities like Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Muskegon, Holland, and Battle Creek.

MDARD Hotline Available for Complaints

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

For additional information on MDARD's Motor Fuel Quality Program, please visit MDARD's Gasoline Information page.

What This Means for West Michigan Drivers

West Michigan motorists will see savings as the executive order takes effect. Grand Rapids residents filling up at gas stations throughout Kent County, Kalamazoo drivers in Calhoun County, and Muskegon commuters in Lake County will all benefit from access to cheaper fuel blends.

The order is designed to provide immediate relief to Michigan families dealing with the economic pressures of rising gas prices, food costs, and other essentials.

Looking Ahead

The governor emphasized that executive action alone cannot solve the root causes of higher gas prices. She called on state lawmakers to continue working on budget measures that would provide additional relief to working families, including tax cuts, property tax relief, and a sales tax holiday on school supplies.

As Michigan moves forward, the energy emergency declaration represents a temporary measure to help drivers cope with the economic challenges caused by the Iran war and federal tariffs.