Governor Whitmer Takes Action on Federal Tariffs One Year After 'Liberation Day'

LANSING, Mich. — On the one-year anniversary of President Donald Trump's "Liberation Day," Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed an executive directive aimed at helping Michigan businesses and consumers recover costs from federal tariffs that the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled illegal.

The directive, signed on April 2, 2026, instructs state departments and agencies to compile comprehensive reports on the economic impact of tariffs enacted under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. It also directs state officials to use available channels to ensure registered businesses and employers know how to seek refunds through the federal process being developed.

Tariffs Cost Michiganders Thousands

"The president's tariffs have jacked up costs, and Michiganders have been paying the price," Governor Whitmer said in a statement released by her office. "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."

According to the governor's office, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Learning Resources, Inc. v. Trump that these tariffs were unconstitutional. The U.S. Court of International Trade has since ruled that the federal government must issue refunds for tariffs collected under the now-invalidated executive orders.

Economic Impact on Michigan Industries

A report ordered by the governor last July highlighted the severe impact tariffs have had on Michigan's key industries:

Agriculture and Farmers

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) reported sharp declines in agricultural exports:

  • Wheat exports down 89%
  • Cherries down 62%
  • Apples down 58%
  • Soybeans down 46%

At the same time, the department noted significant price increases:

  • Spices up 50%
  • Food packaging up 12%
  • Food prices up 3.6%

Homebuilders and Homebuyers

The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) tracked a nationwide increase of up to $4 billion on materials necessary for home construction, along with an increase in home prices of approximately $10,000.

Infrastructure

The Michigan Department of Transportation reported a $218 million increase in costs for road projects, attributed to tariffs and economic inflation.

Automotive Industry

Recent analysis found that tariffs cost U.S. automakers $35 billion last year alone.

Impact on Working Families

The governor's office estimates that tariffs have cost working families approximately $1,000 per year on average. The increased costs have been passed along through higher prices for cars, appliances, construction materials, and consumer products.

"The pain of these increased costs from tariffs has not been offset by any of the promised economic gain," the governor's statement noted. "US GDP grew at a slower rate in 2025 than in preceding years, and companies added fewer jobs in 2025 than at any point in the last 20 years."

U.S. Customs Working on Refund Process

In their most recent update to the U.S. Court of International Trade, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency reported that they were between 60% and 85% complete with creating a streamlined process for refund claims. The agency has stated it aims to establish a system that doesn't require individual lawsuits for importers to recover their money.

Business Leaders Welcome the Directive

Brian Calley, president and CEO of the Small Business Association of Michigan, said that help would be welcomed by businesses, particularly those that cannot afford legal counsel to navigate the complex federal refund process.

"I think that's the most important thing that could be provided for small businesses, in particular, that will be navigating a system that literally doesn't exist right now," Calley told Michigan Public Radio. "There's so many complex aspects to this."

Uncertainty About Future Tariffs

Despite the Supreme Court ruling, economic experts warn that uncertainty remains about how the refund decision will be applied and who might ultimately benefit.

Sandy Baruha, president and CEO of the Detroit Regional Chamber, expressed caution about assuming refunds will materialize. "I would not buy things on credit based on the supposed promise of reimbursement checks coming," Baruha said. "I think he's moving from one avenue to another and he's in the process of doing that right now."

Economist Charles Ballard agreed there are still questions about the practical application of the court decision. "I think there probably will be some refunds," Ballard said. "To the extent to which those trickle back to consumers, I don't think we're sure about that, especially since there already so many other inflationary pressures right now, especially in the oil markets."

Governor's Continued Push for Economic Relief

While addressing the tariff issue, Governor Whitmer continues to work on other economic initiatives. She has been working to lower costs on housing, health care, and education. Earlier in April 2026, the governor also issued an executive order declaring an energy emergency to help save Michigan motorists money at the pump amid rising gas prices driven by tariffs and ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Next Steps

The new executive directive requires departments to submit reports illustrating the way tariffs have impacted Michigan industries and consumers within 30 days. It also directs state departments to actively help registered businesses understand the refund process being developed by federal authorities.

Whether it's making it easier to get refunds or working to lower everyday costs, Governor Whitmer has said she continues to support Michigan businesses and families through these challenging economic times.

"Whether it's making it easier to get your refund or working to lower everyday costs, we've got your back," the governor said. "I'll continue to call on Congress to set a strategic trade policy that keeps costs down and our economy stable."

The governor remains committed to calling on Congress to establish a strategic trade policy that keeps costs down and maintains economic stability for Michigan businesses and consumers.