Michigan Drivers Face Higher Gas Tax in 2026

Michigan Drivers Face Higher Gas Tax in 2026

Jan 5, 2026 | Michigan News

Keep Pushing.

Summary

Michigan’s fuel‑tax structure will undergo a major statutory shift on January 1, 2026, raising the state gas tax from 31 cents to approximately 52.4 cents per gallon. The change eliminates the 6% sales tax on fuel and replaces it with a higher, fixed‑rate motor‑fuel tax intended to stabilize transportation funding.

Background

Michigan historically relied on a hybrid system: a 31‑cent motor‑fuel tax, an 18.4‑cent federal tax, and a 6% sales tax that fluctuated with fuel prices. Because the sales tax did not support road funding, lawmakers argued the structure was unpredictable and misaligned with transportation needs.

In 2025, the Legislature approved a package of bills amending the Motor Fuel Tax Act and restructuring the state budget. The Governor signed the legislation as part of the FY 2026 budget. This was not a ballot initiative; it was enacted through the standard legislative process.

Beginning in 2026, the sales tax on fuel is eliminated, and the state fuel tax increases by roughly 20 cents per gallon, with an annual inflation adjustment capped at 5%.

Opinions

Supporters—primarily legislative sponsors of the fuel‑tax package—contend the reform is “revenue neutral” at current fuel prices and ensures that all fuel‑related taxes are dedicated to transportation infrastructure. They emphasize predictability and transparency.

Critics, including policy analysts and transportation‑funding researchers, caution that the projected revenue gains depend heavily on external sources such as marijuana wholesale taxes and corporate‑income‑tax reallocations. Others note that the statutory formula will automatically increase EV and hybrid registration fees, potentially discouraging adoption of cleaner vehicles.

What’s at Stake

  • Road Funding Stability: Michigan’s longstanding infrastructure challenges make predictable revenue essential.

  • Driver Costs: Depending on fuel prices, motorists may pay more when prices are low and less when prices are high.

  • EV Policy: Increased registration fees may conflict with broader environmental and electrification goals.

  • Budget Reliability: The state is relying on multiple revenue streams to meet transportation projections; shortfalls could prompt future legislative revisions.

Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How

  • Who made the decision: The Michigan Legislature approved the tax changes through the FY 2026 budget bills.

  • Who signed it: The Governor of Michigan.

  • What is changing: The state fuel tax increases to about 52.4 cents per gallon, and the 6% sales tax on fuel is eliminated.

  • When it takes effect: January 1, 2026.

  • Where it applies: All gasoline and diesel fuel sold in Michigan.

  • Why it’s happening: To create a more predictable, dedicated funding source for transportation infrastructure.

  • How it works: A higher fixed‑rate fuel tax replaces the percentage‑based sales tax, with annual inflation adjustments.

In Closing

Michigan’s 2026 fuel‑tax overhaul represents a significant policy shift aimed at stabilizing road‑funding revenue. Whether the system ultimately benefits drivers and infrastructure will depend on fuel‑price trends, EV adoption, and the performance of related revenue sources. For now, motorists should expect higher per‑gallon taxes beginning in the new year.

FAQ

Q: How much will the new gas tax be in 2026?
A: The state fuel tax will be approximately 52.4 cents per gallon starting January 1, 2026.

Q: Was this increase approved by voters?
A: No. It was enacted through the legislative budget process and signed by the Governor.

Q: Why eliminate the 6% sales tax on fuel?
A: Lawmakers wanted all fuel‑related taxes to support transportation rather than the general fund or school aid.

Q: Will drivers pay more overall? A: It depends on fuel prices. When prices are low, taxes will be higher than before; when prices are high, drivers may pay less.

Q: Why are EV and hybrid fees increasing?
A: Michigan law ties registration‑fee increases to fuel‑tax increases to ensure EVs contribute to road‑funding revenue.

Relevant Laws and References

Komorn Law, founded in 1993, brings decades of seasoned experience to Michigan’s most complex criminal and regulatory matters, including the evolving cannabis framework from the MMMA to today’s MRTMA landscape. The firm represents clients facing controlled‑substance offenses, DUI and drug‑related driving charges, firearm violations, property crimes, resisting or obstructing, and the most serious allegations such as manslaughter and homicide. With a proven record in courts across Michigan and the federal system, Komorn Law delivers strategic, relentless advocacy when the stakes are highest. To work with a firm that truly refuses to back down, call  248-357-2550. 

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Michigan Drivers Face Higher Gas Tax in 2026

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Michigan begins 2026 with New Laws

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Michigan begins 2026 with New Laws

Michigan begins 2026 with New Laws

Jan 2, 2026 | Michigan Laws, Michigan News

Michigan’s 2026 legal landscape includes major tax reforms—most notably the gas‑tax increase from 31¢ to 52.4¢ per gallon—along with cannabis tax changes, wage increases, consumer protections, and transparency laws.

Michigan begins 2026 with a slate of new laws affecting wages, taxes, cannabis, consumer protections, and entertainment ticket sales. These changes—signed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer after passage by the Michigan Legislature—touch nearly every household and business in the state.

Summary

Michigan’s 2026 legal landscape includes increases to the minimum wage, higher cannabis taxes, new rules targeting ticket‑buying bots, expanded consumer protections, and updated safety requirements for childcare centers. These laws were passed during the 2024–2025 legislative session and signed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, taking effect January 1, 2026.

Background

Michigan lawmakers passed a relatively small number of bills in 2025—just 74 in total—but several major policy changes were included in that group. Gov. Whitmer signed 36 of those bills in late December 2025, finalizing the measures now in effect for 2026

Key laws include:

  • A minimum wage increase to $13.73/hour, with proportional increases for tipped workers and minors.

  • A 24% cannabis excise tax, raising costs for recreational marijuana users and directing revenue toward infrastructure and public programs.

  • The “Taylor Swift Bills,” banning automated bots from mass‑purchasing event tickets and reselling them at inflated prices.

  • New consumer protections for insurance buyers and entertainment customers.

  • Safety upgrades for daycare center door‑locking systems.

Opinions

Supporters argue these laws modernize Michigan’s economy and protect consumers. Labor advocates praise the wage increase as necessary to keep pace with inflation. Infrastructure groups support the cannabis and gas‑tax adjustments, which direct revenue toward road funding.

Critics, however, warn that higher cannabis taxes may push consumers back to the illicit market. Some business groups argue that wage increases could strain small employers. Ticket‑resale platforms oppose the bot‑ban legislation, claiming it may be difficult to enforce.

What’s at Stake

These laws affect:

  • Household budgets, through wage increases and higher cannabis and gas taxes.

  • Small businesses, which must adjust payroll and compliance practices.

  • Consumers, who gain new protections against unfair ticketing and insurance practices.

  • Public safety, through childcare facility upgrades.

  • State revenue, which will shift as new taxes take effect.

The broader stakes involve Michigan’s attempt to balance economic growth, consumer fairness, and regulatory modernization.

Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How

  • Who made the decisions? The Michigan Legislature passed the bills; Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed them into law.

  • What happened? A package of new laws—including wage increases, tax changes, consumer protections, and ticket‑bot bans—took effect.

  • When? January 1, 2026.

  • Where? Statewide across Michigan.

  • Why were these laws enacted? To address economic conditions, protect consumers, increase revenue for infrastructure, and modernize regulatory systems.

  • How were they approved? Each measure was introduced as a bill, voted on by both chambers of the Legislature, and signed by the Governor. None of the laws were enacted by ballot initiative; all passed through the standard legislative process.

See more laws and tax hikes here

Komorn Law, founded in 1993, brings decades of seasoned experience to Michigan’s most complex criminal and regulatory matters, including the evolving cannabis framework from the MMMA to today’s MRTMA landscape. The firm represents clients facing controlled‑substance offenses, DUI and drug‑related driving charges, firearm violations, property crimes, resisting or obstructing, and the most serious allegations such as manslaughter and homicide. With a proven record in courts across Michigan and the federal system, Komorn Law delivers strategic, relentless advocacy when the stakes are highest. To work with a firm that truly refuses to back down, call  248-357-2550. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the new minimum wage in Michigan for 2026?

A: The minimum wage is now $13.73/hour, with increases for tipped workers and minors.

Q: How much is the new cannabis tax?

A: Recreational marijuana purchases now include a 24% excise tax, raising overall retail prices.

Q: What are the “Taylor Swift Bills”?

A: These laws prohibit automated bots from buying large quantities of event tickets, aiming to prevent inflated resale prices.

Q: Did Gov. Whitmer sign all these laws?

A: Yes. The Governor signed dozens of bills in late 2025, finalizing the laws now in effect.

Q: Were these laws voted on individually?

A: Yes. Each law passed through the Legislature with its own vote before being signed.

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Michigan Drivers Face Higher Gas Tax in 2026

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Marijuana Under Fire in Michigan

Marijuana Under Fire in Michigan

Nov 28, 2025 | Michigan Laws, Michigan News

Marijuana in Michigan is facing renewed challenges as lawmakers push for higher taxes and regulatory changes that critics argue undermine the voter-approved legalization of 2018. Court battles, legislative maneuvers, and industry pushback highlight the tension between public will and government control.

Summary: The Great Green Tax Grab

Michigan’s vibrant, multi-billion dollar cannabis market, born from the will of the people, is facing a major crisis. Just years after voters approved the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act (MRTMA) in 2018, state lawmakers are being accused of attempting an end-run around the Constitution.

The flashpoint is the new 24% wholesale excise tax, hastily introduced in late 2025, which, when stacked atop existing taxes, pushes Michigan toward becoming one of the most heavily taxed cannabis states in the nation.

The industry is crying foul, arguing this massive tax hike illegally amends the voter-initiated law and threatens to crash the legal market, driving consumers and revenue back to the illicit economy. Legal challenges are now underway, placing the fate of Michigan’s cannabis experiment in the hands of the courts.

Background and Chronological Timeline: From Referendum to “Road” Tax.

The current controversy is rooted in the unique status of the MRTMA, a law enacted directly by Michigan citizens, which affords it special constitutional protection against legislative meddling.

Specifically, the Michigan Constitution requires that any subsequent amendment to a voter-initiated law must be passed by a three-fourths supermajority in both legislative chambers.

 

Date Event/Law/Case Detail/Significance
Nov 6, 2018 MRTMA (Proposal 1) Approved Voters approve the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act (Initiated Law 1 of 2018), legalizing adult-use cannabis (21+). The law established a 10% retail excise tax and a 6% sales tax.
Dec 6, 2018 MRTMA takes effect Personal possession and cultivation become legal under state law.
Dec 2019 First legal adult-use sales begin Commercial sales commence, launching the state’s regulated industry.
2020 Public Act 192 of 2020 (Clean Slate Act) (LMFAO) Legislature passes a law creating a rebuttable presumption for the expungement of misdemeanor marijuana convictions related to activity now legal under the MRTMA.
2021 Brightmoore Gardens v Marijuana Regulatory Agency The Michigan Court of Appeals largely upheld the right of municipalities to prohibit or strictly control cannabis businesses, reinforcing local control over licensing.
2022 Naturale & Co. v City of Hamtramck A federal court case highlights the ongoing tension between local municipal control and state licensing, resulting in a favorable decision for a cannabis applicant under different facts than Brightmoore.
Oct 2025 Comprehensive Road Funding Tax Act (HB 4951) Signed Governor Whitmer signs the bill imposing a 24% wholesale excise tax on cannabis transfers, set to take effect January 1, 2026. This was passed without the 3/4 supermajority required to amend the MRTMA.
Oct/Nov 2025 Michigan Cannabis Industry Association v. Eubanks (Lawsuit) MCIA and other operators file suit in the Court of Claims to block the 24% wholesale tax, arguing it is an unconstitutional indirect amendment to the voter-initiated MRTMA.

What’s at Stake: Law, Taxes, and the Market’s Future

The current legal and legislative battle centers on three critical concepts: voter supremacy, punitive taxation, and market stability.

Lawmakers vs. Law-Makers (The Voters)

The key legal hurdle for the state is the constitutional protection afforded to the MRTMA. Since the new tax bill—the Comprehensive Road Funding Tax Act—did not garner the necessary three-fourths supermajority, its legality rests entirely on the argument that it is a new tax and not an amendment to the original 2018 law.

  • The Industry’s Stance: Opponents argue the wholesale tax fundamentally changes the commercial taxation structure established by the voters (a 10% retail excise tax). By imposing a new, massive tax burden on the supply chain, the Legislature is frustrating the very purpose of the MRTMA—to replace the illicit market with a legal, regulated, and reasonably priced one. This frustration, they contend, constitutes an illegal, indirect amendment, usurping the power of the electorate.

  • The State’s Stance: State attorneys contend the tax is imposed under the Legislature’s general authority to levy taxes. They claim the MRTMA only created a targeted retail tax and did not prohibit the application of other taxes.

The Problem of Over-Taxing

Which some “people” can never figure out doesn’t work toward growth.

When the new 24% wholesale excise tax takes effect, it stacks on top of the existing 10% retail excise tax and the standard 6% sales tax. The combined effective tax rate on cannabis transactions would surge to approximately 40%, making Michigan’s marijuana among the most heavily taxed in the country.

Pros and Cons of the Tax Hike

 

Pro (For the State/Public) Con (For the Industry/Consumer)
Infrastructure Funding: Generates an estimated (also trolling you–>) $420 million annually for road and bridge repairs, a priority under the “Fix the Damn Roads Scam” initiative. Black Market Revival: A high combined tax creates a massive price differential, incentivizing consumers to return to cheaper, unregulated, and untested illicit sources. (More money to run the courts and keep the circle of justice office lights lit)
Broadened Tax Base: Diversifies state revenue, avoiding reliance solely on retail sales for funding public works. Market Collapse & Insolvency: Pushes small operators and vertically integrated businesses, already struggling with plummeting wholesale prices, toward financial failure.
Enforcement Incentive: Provides more funding which could potentially be used by the Cannabis Regulatory Agency (CRA) to crack down on the illicit market. Undermining Voter Intent: Legislatively frustrating the MRTMA’s core goal of safe, affordable legal access by making legal products excessively expensive.

Summary

The fight over Michigan’s cannabis tax is a high-stakes constitutional showdown. It pits the immediate need for infrastructure funding against the fundamental principle of direct democracy and the long-term health of a legitimate, multi-billion dollar industry.

If the courts uphold the new wholesale tax, the financial stability of licensed cannabis businesses will be severely jeopardized, and the state risks undermining the success of its own legalization effort by creating an uncompetitive legal market. The outcome will set a critical precedent for the balance of power between Michigan’s Legislature and its citizens.

Here are some interesting law links and articles

Established in 1993, Komorn Law  has decades of experience navigating the complexities of Michigan’s cannabis landscape, from the early days of medical marijuana (MMMA) to the regulatory challenges and constitutional fights of the current adult-use market (MRTMA).

As Michigan’s cannabis community confronts aggressive tax hikes, legislative attempts to rewrite the people’s laws, and ongoing criminal charges stemming from the state’s Public Health Code, the need for experienced legal counsel is paramount. Komorn Law has the expertise and deep institutional knowledge to fight your case in a court of law, from the district to federal court systems, challenging not only individual charges but also the regulatory schemes and constitutional infringements that threaten the industry and individual rights. When you’re ready to hire a lawyer who hates to lose, call our office  248-357-2550. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is the new 24% wholesale tax currently in effect?

A: The Comprehensive Road Funding Tax Act (HB 4951) imposing the 24% wholesale tax was signed into law in October 2025 and is scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026, unless blocked by the courts. Lawsuits filed by the Michigan Cannabis Industry Association are seeking an injunction to stop its implementation, arguing the tax is unconstitutional.

Q: How does the new tax compare to other states?

A: If implemented, the new 24% wholesale tax, combined with the existing 10% retail excise tax and 6% sales tax, would give Michigan one of the highest effective cannabis tax rates in the United States, comparable to or exceeding states that have historically struggled with high illicit market participation due to excessive taxes.

Q: What is the primary legal argument against the tax hike?

A: The main legal challenge is that the tax constitutes an illegal, indirect amendment to the voter-approved Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act (MRTMA). Amending the MRTMA requires a three-fourths supermajority vote from the Legislature, a threshold the tax bill failed to meet.

Q: Did the MRTMA allow for expungement of past marijuana offenses?

A: The MRTMA itself did not mandate expungement, but Michigan’s Legislature later passed Public Act 192 of 2020 (part of the Clean Slate Act), which created a clear, rebuttable presumption for the expungement of misdemeanor marijuana convictions for activities that are no longer considered a crime after the MRTMA’s passage.

Q: What is the difference between the 10% excise tax and the new 24% wholesale tax?

A: The original 10% excise tax is applied at the retail level (paid by the consumer at the point of sale). The new 24% wholesale tax is applied further up the supply chain, at the wholesale level (paid when a cultivator or processor sells or transfers product to a retailer).

Attorney Michael Komorn

Attorney Michael Komorn

State / Federal Legal Defense

With extensive experience in criminal legal defense since 1993 from pre-arrest, District, Circuit, Appeals, Supreme and the Federal court systems.

KOMORN LAW (248) 357-2550

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House Bill 5105 – The MRTMA Shuffle

House Bill 5105 – The MRTMA Shuffle

Nov 4, 2025 | Michigan Laws, Michigan Marijuana Legislature, Michigan Medical Marhuana Regulation

Michigan House Bill 5105 proposes new marijuana penalties and possession limits to combat illicit cannabis operations.

Michigan’s Cannabis Laws

Since Michigan legalized recreational marijuana in 2018, the state has worked to balance personal freedom with public safety. However, large-scale illegal grow operations and unregulated cannabis distribution continue to challenge law enforcement and the Cannabis Regulatory Agency (CRA). In response, lawmakers introduced a series of bills in October 2025 to tighten regulations and redefine penalties.

One of the most prominent proposals is House Bill 5105, introduced on October 22, 2025, by Rep. Pauline Wendzel and others. The bill aims to amend Section 7401 of the Michigan Public Health Code (MCL 333.7401) to update criminal penalties for marijuana-related offenses based on quantity and intent

What HB 5105 Proposes

HB 5105 seeks to distinguish between personal use and large-scale illegal operations by setting clear thresholds for marijuana possession and manufacturing. The bill introduces tiered penalties based on weight, plant count, and concentrate volume.

For example, possessing 10 to 25 kilograms of marijuana or 50 to 100 plants would result in a misdemeanor, while quantities exceeding 250 kilograms or 1,000 plants could lead to felony charges with up to 10 years in prison.

The bill also addresses marijuana concentrates, which have grown in popularity. Possession of 1 to 2.5 kilograms of concentrate would be treated as a misdemeanor, while more than 10 kilograms could trigger felony charges. These changes aim to give law enforcement clearer guidelines and help the CRA target large-scale illicit operations more effectively

Don’t worry the bill is tie-barred to House Bill 5107

How HB 5105 and HB 5107 Work Together

  • HB 5105 amends the Michigan Public Health Code (MCL 333.7401) to redefine criminal penalties for marijuana-related offenses. It introduces tiered penalties based on the amount of marijuana or concentrate possessed or manufactured.
  • HB 5107 amends the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act (MCL 333.27955 and MCL 333.27965) to modify the allowable amounts of marijuana for personal use and possession.

Because HB 5105 sets penalties and HB 5107 sets the legal possession limits, the two bills are interdependent. For example, if HB 5107 changes the legal threshold for personal possession, HB 5105 must reflect those changes in its penalty structure. The tie-bar ensures that enforcement and legal standards remain aligned.

You can read the full bill texts here:

What Does “Tie-Barred” Mean?

In Michigan legislative terms, a tie-bar means that one bill is legally connected to another. If two bills are tie-barred, they must both be passed for either to take effect. This ensures that related legal changes are implemented together, maintaining consistency across statutes.

Key Details of HB 5105

  • Introduced: October 22, 2025

  • Sponsors: Reps. Wendzel, Aragona, Borton, Fairbairn, Wozniak, Neyer

  • Committee: Regulatory Reform

  • Purpose: Amend penalties under MCL 333.7401 for marijuana-related crimes

  • Focus Areas:

    • Unlicensed manufacturing

    • Possession thresholds for flower and concentrate

    • Differentiation between personal and commercial-scale offenses

Penalty Breakdown

  • Misdemeanor Offenses:

    • 10–25 kg of marijuana

    • 50–100 plants

    • 1–2.5 kg of concentrate

  • Felony Offenses:

    • Over 250 kg of marijuana

    • Over 1,000 plants

    • Over 10 kg of concentrate

    • Up to 10 years imprisonment for highest tier offenses

LINKS

View the relevant law at [MCL 333.7401]

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Michigan House Bill 5105?

Answer: House Bill 5105 is a proposed amendment to Michigan’s Public Health Code (MCL 333.7401) that redefines criminal penalties for marijuana-related offenses. It introduces tiered punishments based on the amount of marijuana or concentrate possessed or manufactured, aiming to target large-scale illegal cannabis operations while distinguishing them from personal use.

Who introduced HB 5105 and why?

Answer: HB 5105 was introduced on October 22, 2025, by Rep. Pauline Wendzel and co-sponsored by several other lawmakers. The bill was created in response to growing concerns about unlicensed marijuana grow operations and trafficking, which pose risks to public safety and undermine Michigan’s regulated cannabis market.

What are the proposed penalties under HB 5105?

Answer: The bill proposes penalties based on possession thresholds:

  • Misdemeanor: 10–25 kg of marijuana, 50–100 plants, or 1–2.5 kg of concentrate.
  • Felony: Over 250 kg of marijuana, over 1,000 plants, or over 10 kg of concentrate, with up to 10 years imprisonment.

These penalties are designed to differentiate between personal use and commercial-scale illegal activity.

Does HB 5105 affect medical marijuana patients?

Answer: No, HB 5105 does not directly target registered medical marijuana patients who comply with Michigan’s medical cannabis laws. The bill focuses on unlicensed manufacturing and possession beyond legal limits, particularly in cases involving trafficking or large-scale cultivation.

Is HB 5105 currently law?

Answer: As of November 2025, HB 5105 is still under review by the House Regulatory Reform Committee. It has not yet been passed into law. You can track its progress and read the full bill text on the Michigan Legislature Website.

Don’t forget about HB4951 you didn’t vote for

Legal Defense: Komorn Law PLLC

If you or someone you know is facing marijuana-related charges under from the cannabis enforcement teams or federal drug laws, Attorney Michael Komorn of Komorn Law PLLC offers aggressive and strategic defense. With decades of experience in cannabis law and federal litigation, Komorn Law understands the nuances of Michigan’s evolving marijuana regulations and how to challenge overreach or misapplication in court.

Komorn Law can:

  • Challenge unlawful search and seizure
  • Dispute quantity assessments and intent
  • Navigate federal vs. state law conflicts
  • Advocate for reduced or dismissed charges
Attorney Michael Komorn

Attorney Michael Komorn

State / Federal Legal Defense

With extensive experience in criminal legal defense since 1993 from pre-arrest, District, Circuit, Appeals, Supreme and the Federal court systems.

KOMORN LAW (248) 357-2550

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Seven News Story Summaries – September 2025 (Part 1)

Seven News Story Summaries – September 2025 (Part 1)

Sep 16, 2025 | Michigan News, Michigan Supreme Court

Seven Summaries of Seven News Stories

Governor Issues Executive Directive on AI Use in State Agencies

Between September 1–15, 2025, the Governor of Michigan issued an executive directive regulating the use of artificial intelligence in state agencies. The directive mandates transparency, ethical guidelines, and public reporting for AI systems used in decision-making processes.

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FAQs

Q: What does the directive require? A: Agencies must disclose AI use and follow ethical standards.

Q: Is this a law? A: No, it’s an executive directive with binding effect on state agencies.

Q: Where can the directive be found? A: It will be published in the Michigan Register and agency websites.

Child Welfare Appellate Clinic Wins Court of Appeals Case

On September 2, 2025, Michigan Law’s Child Welfare Appellate Clinic secured a favorable ruling in the Michigan Court of Appeals. The case involved parental rights termination and procedural fairness. The court emphasized the need for clear evidence and proper notice in such proceedings.

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FAQs

Q: What was the key issue in the case? A: Whether the parent received adequate notice and a fair hearing.

Q: What precedent does this set? A: It reinforces procedural safeguards in child welfare cases.

Q: Who represented the parent? A: Michigan Law students under faculty supervision.

Michigan Law School Hosts Conference on Gender Apartheid and International Law

On September 4, 2025, the University of Michigan Law School hosted a legal conference focused on using international law to combat gender apartheid. Legal scholars and practitioners discussed treaty enforcement, human rights litigation, and comparative legal frameworks.

FAQs

Q: Is this related to Michigan law? A: Indirectly, through academic exploration of international legal principles.

Q: Who attended the conference? A: Legal scholars, students, and human rights advocates.

Q: Will there be follow-up actions? A: The school plans to publish proceedings and policy recommendations.

Environmental Lawsuit Filed Over Microsoft Water Use

On September 13, 2025, an environmental group filed suit in Michigan seeking disclosure of projected water usage by a planned Microsoft data center in Mount Pleasant. The plaintiffs argue that the public has a right to know how much Lake Michigan water will be diverted and whether it complies with conservation laws.

Environmental advocates are suing the city of Racine to force the release of information on projected water use in the first phase of Microsoft’s $3.3 billion data center campus in Mount Pleasant.

The complaint filed Monday 

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FAQs

Q: What is the legal basis for the lawsuit? A: Michigan’s Freedom of Information Act and environmental protection statutes.

Q: Is Microsoft named in the suit? A: The suit targets local agencies responsible for approving water use.

Q: What are the plaintiffs seeking? A: Full disclosure of water usage estimates and environmental impact assessments.

Continued… Here’s the full paper trail surrounding the FOIA dispute and water usage data for Microsoft’s Mount Pleasant data center, including the lawsuit, city response, and released records.

FOIA Request Timeline and Lawsuit

  • In February 2025, Milwaukee Riverkeeper submitted a public records request to the City of Racine seeking projected water usage data for the Microsoft data center.
  • The city delayed responding, citing the need to review contractual obligations with Microsoft.
  • On September 15, 2025, Midwest Environmental Advocates filed a lawsuit in Racine County Circuit Court on behalf of Milwaukee Riverkeeper, alleging unlawful delay under Wisconsin’s public records law.

City of Racine’s Response and Record Release

  • On September 17, 2025, the City of Racine released the requested documents and issued a public statement reaffirming its commitment to transparency.
  • The city acknowledged the delay was due to coordination with Microsoft to avoid violating contractual agreements.
  • Racine Mayor Cory Mason stated: “Open and transparent government is not optional; it is essential to public trust.”

The official media release is available as a PDF from the .

Water Usage Records and Environmental Impact

  • The records show Microsoft is permitted to use up to 2.8 million gallons of Lake Michigan water annually in phase one, with future expansion potentially reaching 8.4 million gallons per year.
  • Wastewater discharge could reach 243,000 gallons per day.
  • Microsoft has stated that its cooling systems aim to minimize water use through closed-loop technology.

Detailed projections and environmental concerns are covered in this report from the .

FAQs

Q: Why did the City of Racine delay releasing the records? A: Officials cited the need to review contractual obligations with Microsoft before releasing sensitive data.

Q: What legal action was taken? A: Midwest Environmental Advocates sued the city for violating Wisconsin’s public records law due to a 210-day delay.

Q: How much water will Microsoft use? A: Up to 2.8 million gallons annually in phase one, with potential expansion to 8.4 million gallons per year.

Q: Can’t they pull it from a dirty lake like Lake Erie, use it, clean it and put it back in? A:  

Michigan Court Orders Website Takedown Over Misleading Political Fundraising

On September 14, 2025, a Michigan court ordered a Massachusetts resident to remove websites that allegedly misled donors into believing they were contributing to Michigan political campaigns. The court found the sites violated consumer protection laws and misrepresented affiliations with Michigan-based entities.

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FAQs

Q: What law was violated? A: Michigan consumer protection statutes regarding deceptive practices.

Q: Was this a criminal case? A: No, it was a civil enforcement action.

Q: Can the defendant appeal? A: Yes, the ruling may be appealed to a higher court.

Court of Claims to Hear Earmarks Lawsuit

On September 15, 2025, the Michigan Court of Claims scheduled hearings in a case questioning the constitutionality of legislative earmarks in the state budget. Plaintiffs argue that certain appropriations lack transparency and violate separation of powers. The court will examine whether these earmarks meet constitutional standards under Michigan law.

FAQs

Q: What are legislative earmarks? A: Specific budget allocations directed to projects or entities, often without competitive review.

Q: What is the legal issue? A: Whether earmarks violate Michigan’s constitutional budgetary procedures.

Q: What could happen next? A: The court may uphold, strike down, or require changes to earmark practices.

Michigan Supreme Court Revives Lawsuit Against EV Battery Plant

On September 15, 2025, the Michigan Supreme Court reinstated a lawsuit challenging the development of the Blue Oval Battery Park in Marshall. The decision reversed a lower court’s dismissal, allowing further review of environmental and zoning concerns raised by local residents and advocacy groups. The ruling does not determine the project’s legality but affirms the plaintiffs’ right to proceed with litigation.

FAQs

Q: What is the lawsuit about? A: It challenges the environmental and zoning approvals for the EV battery plant in Marshall.

Q: Does this ruling stop construction? A: No, it allows the lawsuit to continue but does not halt development.

Q: Who filed the lawsuit? A: A coalition of residents and environmental organizations.

Q: What does a $3B battery factory look like? A: Go here

Aggressive Defense in any Courtroom

For anyone facing charges –  Attorney Michael Komorn of Komorn Law PLLC brings extensive experience in criminal defense in any Michigan court, including Federal Court. Call the office to to hire us. 248-357-2550

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Komorn Law

Arrested? – Better Call Komorn

248-357-2550

Komorn Law
Areas of Service

We represent clients throughout the

State of Michigan and Northern Ohio.

Here are some court contacts we frequently handle cases.

Oakland County

If you are facing any legal charges in Oakland County and need to hire an attorney, call our Office (248) 357-2550. If you need to contact the court, here is the information:

Macomb County

If you are facing any legal charges in Macomb County and need to hire an attorney, call our Office (248) 357-2550. If you need to contact the court, here is the information:

Wayne County

If you are facing any legal charges in Wayne County and need to hire an attorney, call our Office (248) 357-2550. If you need to contact the court, here is the information for the Third Circuit Court (Wayne County):

  • Telephone Number (Civil/Family): (313) 224-5510
  • Telephone Number (Criminal): (313) 224-5261 or (313) 224-2503
  • Address (Civil/Family): 2 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI 48226
  • Address (Criminal): 1441 St. Antoine, Detroit, MI 48226
  • Website: https://www.3rdcc.org/

Kent County

If you are facing any legal charges in Kent County and need to hire an attorney, call our Office (248) 357-2550. If you need to contact the court, here is the information:

  • Telephone Number: (616) 632-5220
  • Address: 180 Ottawa Avenue NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
  • Website: Kent County

Traverse County

If you are facing any legal charges in Traverse County and need to hire an attorney, call our Office (248) 357-2550. If you need to contact the court, here is the information for the 13th Circuit Court (which includes Traverse County):

Monroe County

If you are facing any legal charges in Monroe County and need to hire an attorney, call our Office (248) 357-2550. If you need to contact the court, here is the information: