LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – After the Donald Trump administration opened the door with a federal fuel waiver – and following pressure from Republican lawmakers – Michigan Democratic Gretchen Whitmer signed an executive order, declaring an “energy emergency” to give drivers some relief at the pump while heading off a seasonal price hike.

Whitmer order delays costly summer gas switch for eight Michigan counties.

Executive Order 2026-4 temporarily suspends Michigan’s May 1 requirement for more expensive summer gasoline (lower vapor pressure gasoline) in several downstate counties, allowing stations to continue selling cheaper fuel blends, including E15. The move aligns the state with a federal waiver issued by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on March 25.

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Whitmer’s order affects eight Michigan counties: Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw, Livingston, Monroe, St. Clair, and Lenawee – home to roughly half the state’s population. It’s expected to keep gas prices about 10 to 20 cents lower per gallon than they otherwise would be starting next month.

Republican lawmakers urge action – governor follows through.

The action follows the federal waiver and a March 31 letter from State Rep. Jerry Neyer (R-Shepherd) and 24 House Republicans urging Whitmer to adopt the EPA waiver and expand access to E15 fuel. Neyer praised the move Thursday, calling it “exactly the kind of step that helps people keep more money in their pockets”

The timing is key: Michigan typically switches to pricier summer fuel blends on May 1 due to environmental regulations. Whitmer’s order effectively sidesteps that increase – at least for now. Still, the relief may be short-lived. The order is tied to a temporary federal waiver and ongoing market volatility tied to global conflicts, meaning prices could shift again later this summer.

Tips to save money.

According to AAA, the average gas price in Michigan is currently about $3.86 a gallon. Saving money at the pump comes down to smart driving habits, routine maintenance, and planning ahead, says AAA. Tips given to save money on fuel include driving at steady speeds, avoiding rapid acceleration, and reducing idling, which can boost fuel efficiency, while properly inflating tires and timely maintenance will keep vehicles running smoothly. Combining errands, cutting excess weight, and limiting air conditioning use can also help stretch each tank further and keep more money in drivers’ pockets

Where your $3.95 at the pump actually goes.

In Michigan, if you’re paying $3.95 for a gallon of gas, according to the American Petroleum Institute, most of that cost is tied to crude oil, which typically accounts for about $1.86, or roughly 47% of the total, depending on global markets. Taxes add up to about 71 cents per gallon, including Michigan’s 52.4-cent motor fuel tax and the 18.4-cent federal excise tax. The remaining portion of the price covers refining and getting the fuel to your tank – refining makes up about 16% (around 63 cents), while distribution and marketing, which generally includes the gas station’s profit, account for roughly 20% (about 79 cents). Because these figures are averages and often rounded, they don’t line up perfectly dollar-for-dollar, but they illustrate that crude oil is the biggest cost driver, with taxes and processing making up most of the rest.