Governor Gretchen Whitmer on Tuesday signed an executive order to stabilize fuel supplies in response to widespread flooding in northern Michigan communities.
“Protecting Michiganders and their property is our top priority,” said Governor Whitmer. “With already high water levels across the state and more rain in the forecast, I am temporarily suspending motor carrier regulations for driver hours to stabilize fuel supplies in key areas of northern Michigan and support local communities, first responders, and utility crews as they work hard to keep people safe. We will keep monitoring the situation and supporting local communities with the resources they need.”
In recent weeks, Northern Michigan has experienced heavy rain and rapid snowmelt which has resulted in widespread flooding. This flooding threatens homes, roads, and infrastructure such as the Cheboygan Lock and Dam Complex on the Cheboygan River.
Last week, the governor declared a state of emergency for Cheboygan County to support work around the Cheboygan Dam and prevent it from failing or overflowing.
Downstream of the Cheboygan Dam, the U.S. Energy Cheboygan petroleum terminal is a key facility for delivering gasoline and diesel fuel to the eastern Upper Peninsula and northern Lower Peninsula.
Due to rising water, debris, and the potential for more flooding, the terminal owner has voluntarily delayed barge delivery of gasoline and diesel fuel to ensure worker safety and environmental protection.
To ensure continued stability of fuel reserves in the eastern Upper Peninsula and northern Lower Peninsula, Executive Order 2026-6 provides for temporary relief from certain motor carrier regulations to support fuel transport, first responders and utility crews, and public safety.
Comments