Whitmer Wants State Studies On The Impacts Of Trump's Tariffs In 30 Days

(Source: MIRS.news, Published 07/31/2025) The Governor on Thursday signed an executive directive ordering state agencies to calculate and report the impact of President Donald TRUMP's tariffs on Michigan's manufacturing, agricultural and automotive industries.

Thursday's directive, signed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, will apply to the state's housing development authority, transportation department, department of natural resources and the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). It also applies to the state's Department of Technology, Management and Budget (DTMB) and the Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE).

The departments will have 30 days to submit reports to Whitmer outlining the effects of Trump's tariffs – as well as projected future impacts – on the industries they regulate. Departments could request deadline extensions of no more than 60 days.

"As tariff rates continue to rise and stockrooms empty, companies will have to increase prices and review payrolls. U.S. employers could face a direct cost of $82.3 billion because of the federal tariff plans," Whitmer said in her directive. "While some businesses may be able to keep prices stable for some time, rising costs will at some point force them to respond through price hikes, layoffs, hiring freezes, or lower profit margins."

Her office noted a July 25 Detroit Free Press article covering Detroit Axle, an automotive part supplier. The company revealed in a state filing its plans to close a warehouse in Ferndale, permanently severing 102 people's jobs due to tariff-related supply chain disruptions. The job cuts will take place on Aug. 25.

Also, earlier this month, Howard Miller – the nearly 100-year-old furniture and clock manufacturer headquartered in Zeeland – announced it will begin shutting off productions.

The company's president, Howard "Buzz" Miller, said in a statement that the tariffs had increased "essential components” costs, making it unsustainable to continue operations. He mentioned that specialty suppliers have been driven out of business, as well.

"Economic uncertainty resulting from tariffs, both enacted and threatened, will continue dragging down Michigan's economy, increasing both prices and uncertainty for people and business," Whitmer said in her directive.

Whitmer has been vocal about her worries and scrutiny of Trump's tariff policies, describing them as a reason why Sandisk – the flash memory product manufacturer – dropped its interest in pursuing a $55 billion microchip development in Genesee County.

Her criticisms follow flack she's received from within the Democratic Party for being too collaborative with Trump.