Governor Whitmer Issues Executive Order to Evaluate Tariff Impacts and Help Michiganders Seek Federal Refunds

Governor Signs Directive as Supreme Court Strikes Down Tariffs

LANSING — Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed an executive directive Thursday ordering multiple state agencies to evaluate the ongoing economic impacts of President Donald Trump's tariffs and to assist Michigan businesses in seeking refunds from the federal government.

The directive comes one year after "Liberation Day," when Trump announced a broad package of tariffs on imports to the United States. The Supreme Court subsequently struck down part of those tariffs, allowing some businesses to seek refunds from the federal government on import dues they paid prior to the ruling.

What the Executive Order Requires

Whitmer's new directive orders the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO), the Department of Transportation (MDOT) and the Department of Treasury to submit reports that illustrate "the way that the use of tariffs has impacted Michigan industries and consumers."

The ordered agencies have 30 days to submit their findings, which will include data from the last 12-15 months.

Additionally, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and other agencies and departments that provided reports in response to a previous executive directive are encouraged to also submit reports explaining any impacts they may have perceived.

The final portion of the executive directive asks the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs and the LEO to help Michiganders access refunds from the tariffs struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court.

Whitmer's Rationale

"The president's tariffs have jacked up costs, and Michiganders have been paying the price," Whitmer said. "Now that the Supreme Court has ruled that these tariffs are illegal, it's time for Michiganders to get their money back. This executive directive will show us the damage from these irresponsible tariffs and help get refunds back to Michigan businesses. I'll continue to call on Congress to set a strategic trade policy that keeps costs down and our economy stable. Whether it's making it easier to get your refund or working to lower everyday costs, we've got your back."

This is not Whitmer's first move on tariffs. In July 2025, she signed a similar executive directive ordering state agencies to evaluate the impact of tariffs on the state's economy. In November of that year, the ordered agencies shared their reports, which showed risks to jobs, risks of higher grocery prices and risks of more expensive housing.

Broader Context

The Trump administration's tariffs have been a contentious issue since their implementation last year. The Supreme Court's decision to strike down portions of the tariffs has opened the door for businesses to seek refunds, but the process has been complex.

According to recent reporting, the IEEPA tariff refund portal has topped 26,000 registrations as the Customs and Border Protection races to pay back $166 billion. However, one-third of the total sum will be excluded from the first refund, adding another layer of complexity to what businesses hope will be a straightforward recovery process.

Michigan's Economic Impact

Michigan's economy is heavily tied to manufacturing and agriculture, both sectors that rely on imported materials and components. The tariff impacts on these industries could be significant.

The Michigan Department of Treasury recently issued over $2 billion in tax refunds so far this season, demonstrating the state's commitment to putting money back in the hands of Michiganders. While these tax refunds are separate from tariff refunds, they reflect the administration's broader economic priorities.

What's Next

With the 30-day deadline approaching, businesses and consumers in Michigan will be watching closely to see what findings the state agencies uncover. The reports are expected to provide critical data on how the tariffs have affected different sectors of the state economy, from manufacturing to agriculture to retail.

The LEO will also be working to streamline the refund process for those who are eligible. Businesses that have already registered for refunds through the federal portal will be looking for state assistance in navigating the claims process.

This executive order represents another example of Whitmer's approach to state governance: identifying issues that directly impact Michiganders and directing state agencies to take concrete action to address them.