Updates About Governor

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has signed an executive directive instructing the Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) to assist Michiganders with navigating upcoming changes to the federal Health Insurance Marketplace. This directive comes in response to a recently passed federal budget bill, which state officials worry could raise premium costs by thousands annually and create new barriers for families trying to maintain their coverage. In Michigan alone, more than 500,000 residents currently rely on Marketplace insurance.

The changes are expected to increase verification requirements for many applicants, particularly for families with incomes at or below 150% of the federal poverty level. Beginning in 2026, the open enrollment period will also be shortened by one month, giving residents less time to secure coverage. Marketplace insurance and Enhanced Premium Tax Credits have historically helped lower costs for working families, providing an average savings of about $700 annually.

Under the directive, DIFS will expand outreach during open enrollment, provide direct assistance through its consumer helpline, and connect residents with Health Insurance Navigators to discuss their options. We’ll continue to monitor how these changes may affect Michiganders. In the meantime, you may read the governor’s full executive directive for more information.

As Medicare and Medicaid reach their 60th anniversary, Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist are celebrating the sweeping impact the programs have had on Michiganders while also raising alarm over recent federal threats to their future. These landmark health care programs now cover more than one in four state residents, providing essential care for children, seniors, people with disabilities, and low-income families. Whitmer credited Medicaid and Medicare with reducing poverty, supporting rural hospitals, and keeping costs down for working families.

At the same time, Whitmer and Gilchrist sharply criticized recently passed federal legislation that cuts nearly $1 trillion in Medicaid funding, which would eliminate health care for many here in Michigan. With nearly 2.6 million Michiganders relying on these programs, including 1 million children and three in five nursing home residents, Whitmer and Gilchrist have pledged to keep fighting for access to affordable care, even as Congress moves in the opposite direction.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has signed an executive directive requiring state offices to assess the impact of federal tariffs on Michigan’s economy. Executive Directive 2025-5 instructs that by August 30, the following departments are to review data that may shed light on the impact of new tariffs in Michigan: Department of Agriculture and Rural Development; Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy; Department of Natural Resources; Department of Technology, Management, and Budget; Department of Transportation; and the Michigan State Housing Development Authority.

Here in Michigan, the impact of tariffs is poised to be much higher than in many other states due to our manufacturing and agriculture-heavy economy. Already, the state has experienced rising costs and disrupted supply chains. Whitmer has expressed concerns about the negative effects these tariffs will have on Michigan families and businesses. The directive was issued one day before President Trump’s August 1 tariff deadline.