To protect Michigan residents from potential fuel and gas supply disruptions, Governor Gretchen Whitmer sent a letter to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency requesting an emergency fuel waiver that will increase supply and mitigate price fluctuations. The request comes following a recent outage at an oil refinery in Illinois, coupled with potential impacts due to hurricane season, and the increase in travel during the summer months.
Background:
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- The ExxonMobil Joliet Refinery unexpectedly shut down this summer due to severe weather. The Outage is expected to last in August.
- The 2024 hurricane season is anticipated to be severe, potentially putting additional fuel transport from the Gulf region at risk.
“Today, I’m taking action to help protect Michiganders from fuel supply disruptions,” said Governor Whitmer. “With hurricane season in full swing and a refinery outage in Illinois, we must ensure we’re taking all the steps necessary to proactively protect Michiganders’ access to fuel for their cars, homes, and businesses without delay. That’s why I am dedicated to working with the EPA to keep fuel available and affordable for Michiganders by temporarily removing barriers to ensure an adequate and stable fuel supply. Together, let’s get it done.”
