Governor Whitmer Declares Energy Emergency to Lower Gas Prices Amid Iran War and Tariffs

Executive Order Aims to Save Michigan Drivers Money at the Pump

LANSING — Governor Gretchen Whitmer has taken direct action to address rising gas prices, signing Executive Order 2026-4 Thursday to declare a state of energy emergency in Michigan. The order temporarily eases restrictions on fuel blends, allowing for the sale of higher vapor pressure gasoline that is typically 10 to 20 cents cheaper per gallon.

The executive order comes as gas prices have climbed sharply across the state, driven in part by the ongoing war between the United States and Iran, which has disrupted global oil supply chains. The shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz — a key shipping route that previously handled up to 21 million barrels of oil per day — has contributed significantly to the spike in fuel costs.

According to the governor's office, average gas prices in Michigan have risen to $3.89 per gallon, up from $2.99, marking an increase of about 30%. Drivers are now paying 97 cents more per gallon than last month and 82 cents more than this time last year.

Relief for Half of Michigan Drivers

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

"The order comes as gas prices continue to sit around $4 a gallon in most Michigan cities," said Whitmer. "High gas prices have been attributed in part to the war with Iran and the ongoing uncertainty involving shipping through the Strait of Hormuz."

The governor's office estimates that easing the regulations could result in a 10 to 20 cent reduction in prices at the pump in counties where the regulation is suspended.

Drivers outside those eight counties may also see savings, as they are already permitted to sell the less expensive fuel blends without a waiver. The order aligns Michigan with a temporary waiver issued by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, which allows for expanded production, distribution, and sale of alternative gasoline blends during the emergency.

Broader Relief Efforts

"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."

The executive order will go into effect immediately and lasts through July 1, 2026. The Michigan Legislature has the option to extend the state of energy emergency past the July 1 date.

Federal and State Alignment

Similar orders from past governors easing regulations on fuel have also targeted the vapor pressure regulation, including an executive order signed by Republican Governor Rick Snyder aiming to lower gas prices after a surge following Hurricane Harvey in 2017.

The EPA 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 aligns Michigan with that federal waiver, expanding the pool of available gasoline and driving down costs for motorists across the state.

Safety Reminders

State officials are reminding drivers to report any suspected issues at gas pumps to the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development's 24-hour hotline at 1-800-MDA-FUEL. For additional information on MDARD's Motor Fuel Quality Program, the public can visit MDARD's Gasoline Information page.

The governor's office also noted that anyone who suspects issues at the pump is encouraged to call MDARD's 24-hour hotline for reporting complaints, 1-800-MDA-FUEL (1-800-632-3835).

Context of Rising Costs

Whitmer emphasized the broader economic challenges facing Michigan families:

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

The order represents one of several actions the governor's office has taken to address the economic pressures facing Michiganders, including appeals on other issues such as the Enbridge Line 5 pipeline litigation.