LANSING, MI (WTVB)- Governor Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of energy emergency on Thursday, in an effort to combat skyrocketing gasoline prices across the state.
By signing Executive Order 2026-4, the governor has temporarily suspended fuel blend requirements in eight Southeast Michigan counties, including Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb, allowing for the sale of higher vapor pressure gasoline that is typically 10 to 20 cents cheaper per gallon.
This move follows a dramatic 30% surge in local gas prices, hitting an average of $3.89 per gallon, triggered by global market disruptions from the war in Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
The emergency order, which aligns with recent federal waivers from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, is scheduled to remain in effect until July 1, 2026, unless extended by the state Legislature.
While the specific suspension of regulations targets the state’s most populous counties, the Governor’s office does say that drivers statewide are expected to see similar relief as retailers gain access to a broader pool of lower-cost fuel blends.
Despite the temporary easing of environmental standards, Whitmer emphasized that the state remains committed to its long-term clean energy goals, calling the action as a “temporary and targeted step” to provide immediate financial relief to Michigan families struggling with rising costs.
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