​FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Thursday, Aug. 31, 2017  

Contacts:  Governor's Office: Anna Heaton or Tanya Baker - 517-335-6397 

Michigan Agency for Energy: Nick Assendelft - 517-388-3135  

LANSING, Mich. – Gov. Rick Snyder today issued Executive Order 2017-6, declaring a State of Energy Emergency in Michigan as a result of the nationwide effects of Hurricane Harvey. The declaration complements a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) order waiving certain requirements of the Clean Air Act relating to the sale, distribution, and use of gasoline during the summer driving season to address fuel supply emergencies.

“With such severe impacts to the petroleum production, refining, and distribution facilities along the Gulf Coast due to Hurricane Harvey, regional petroleum supplies will be affected across the country, including Michigan,” Snyder said. “This executive order will help ensure there are no artificial shortages of fuel impacting the state’s residents or visitors.”

The executive order will allow the suspension of Michigan Reid vapor pressure regulations and permit the transportation and sale of motor fuels with a Reid vapor pressure up to 9.0 psi in Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, St. Clair, Livingston, Washtenaw, Monroe, and Lenawee counties and up to 11.5 psi elsewhere in Michigan.   

“In light of the impact of Hurricane Harvey, Michigan is happy to partner with the Environmental Protection Agency on the nation’s petroleum supply assurance plan,” said Valerie Brader, executive director of the Michigan Agency for Energy (MAE).

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development will coordinate enforcement of the order in cooperation with a variety of state agencies, including MAE, the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, and the Michigan State Police.