Whitmer declares energy emergency in Michigan amid rising gas prices

GasBuddy on Iran war impact on fuel prices

Prices were down to start the week, but GasBuddy Head of Petroleum Analysis Patrick De Haan says fill up fast. He takes a closer look at what could drive prices back up once again.

(FOX 2) - Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has declared an energy emergency in the state amid skyrocketing gas prices.

Placing the blame on tariffs and the Iranian war, Whitmer issued an executive order that would ease requirements on some forms of gasoline, providing a little relief at the pump.

Whitmer said she was trying to "give families a break."

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Whitmer announced on Thursday that requirements on fuel blends would be lessened, allowing for the sale of higher vapor pressure gasoline.

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

She said the order would lower the price of gasoline by 10 to 20 cents.

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The order suspends the May 1 requirement for lower vapor pressure gasoline in Southeast Michigan counties.

They include: Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw, Livingston, Monroe, St. Clair, and Lenawee counties. 

The order will boost access to less expensive gas that will save motorists money. Drivers in other counties "will see similar savings because they are already permitted to sell cheaper fuel blends without seeking a waiver."

Whitmer blames Iran war

The news release added the shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz due to America's invasion of Iran and its bombing campaign in the Middle East had spiked the cost of fuel.

Gas prices have already hit $4 a gallon in the U.S. and $3.89 per gallon in Michigan, which is nearly a $1 more than they were last month.