STATEMENT: Michigan Enacts New Climate Laws and Creates a Just Transition Office for Fossil Fuel Workers and Communities
LANSING, MICHIGAN (November 28, 2023) – Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed a package of climate bills into law that will boost clean energy adoption and reduce emissions in the state.
The new laws include a standard to transition the state to 100% clean electricity by 2040 and new requirements to increase energy storage and accessibility to rooftop solar. The state will also create a new office to support workers and communities impacted by the transition away from fossil fuels in the energy and transportation sectors.
WRI research shows that, with the right policies in place, electric vehicle manufacturing investments in Michigan can create thousands of new jobs and boost local economies, but the state must also support long-time auto workers and communities during the transition.
Climate action at the state and local level is essential for the United States to achieve its goal of cutting emissions by at least 50% by 2030.
Following is a statement from Devashree Saha, Director of US Clean Energy Economy Program, World Resources Institute:
“Michigan is a prime example of a state taking ambitious climate action while prioritizing a just transition for workers and communities as they navigate the shift to a clean energy economy.
“The state’s new just transition office can serve as a template for other states as they develop policies to promote clean energy adoption and transition away from fossil fuels. Whether it's auto workers assembling gas-powered vehicles or coal-fired power plant operators, it is critical no person – or community – is left behind.
“By transitioning to carbon-free electricity by 2040 and equitably advancing clean energy across the state, Michigan can deliver thousands of good-paying jobs, lower energy bills and cleaner air. Michigan is rapidly heading towards the clean energy future.”