The House and Senate adopted a resolution this week that extends Michigan’s current state of energy emergency through September 15. The emergency declaration was issued by Governor Gretchen Whitmer on April 2. Under state law, the governor’s declaration would have expired after 90 days unless extended by the legislature.
Key Points:
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- It suspends the May 1 requirement for lower vapor pressure gasoline in Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw, Livingston, Monroe, St. Clair, and Lenawee Counties.
- Lifting the requirement will increase access to less expensive gas, saving motorists money.
- The eight counties impacted account for approximately five million Michiganders.
- Drivers outside of the areas will see similar savings because they are already permitted to sell cheaper fuel blends without seeking a waiver.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency has issued a temporary waiver of federal vapor pressure requirements to allow the production, distribution, and sale of different gasoline blends. This order brings the state in line with the waiver.
The declaration is aimed at saving drivers’ money at the gas pump by easing requirements on fuel blends, allowing the sale of higher-vapor-pressure gasoline, which is typically 10 to 20 cents cheaper.
