Michigan Governor Declares Energy Emergency to Lower Gas Prices as Iran War Drives Up Costs Across West Michigan

Michigan drivers are paying 97 cents per gallon more than this time last month and 82 cents per gallon more than this time last year. Gas prices have surged to $3.89 per gallon, the highest since summer 2023.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued Executive Order 2026-4 on April 2 to address the spike. The order declares an energy emergency and suspends state-level vapor pressure requirements for gasoline in eight counties. This allows the sale of higher vapor pressure gasoline, which typically costs 10 to 20 cents less per gallon.

The eight affected counties are Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw, Livingston, Monroe, St. Clair, and Lenawee. These counties account for approximately five million Michiganders, or nearly half the state population. Drivers outside these counties will also see savings because they are already permitted to sell cheaper fuel blends without seeking a waiver.

The executive order brings Michigan in line with a temporary waiver issued by the United States Environmental Protection Agency. The EPA waiver allows the production, distribution, and sale of different gasoline blends at a common vapor pressure standard.

The price surge stems from the Iran war, which has disrupted global oil markets by threatening key transportation routes including the Strait of Hormuz. This critical shipping corridor processes up to 21 million barrels of oil per day. The United States and Israel attacked Iran in late February, and fuel prices have spiked nearly 30 percent since then.

Right now, countless Michigan families are struggling with costs on the essentials, from groceries to gas. 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.

Governor Whitmer said in a news release.

The order does not reflect a change in Michigan's commitment to clean air or fuel standards. It is a short-term measure to address rising fuel costs and supply constraints caused by the Iran war.

Anyone who suspects problems at the pump is encouraged to call MDARD's 24-hour hotline for reporting complaints at 1-800-MDA-FUEL or 1-800-632-3835. For additional information on MDARD's Motor Fuel Quality Program, visit MDARD's Gasoline Information page.

The order states it remains in effect until the conditions giving rise to the energy emergency no longer exist, but in no case later than July 1, 2026. The Legislature may extend the emergency past that date.

West Michigan residents are impacted through regional fuel retailers that serve the area. The governor's office directs state agencies to work with local fuel retailers to ensure compliance with the new requirements while maintaining fuel quality standards.