If you are interested in interviewing a Michigan Chamber representative, contact Sara Wurfel, chief communications and marketing officer, at (517) 599-3470 or swurfel@michamber.com.
(FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 31, 2026 | Lansing, Mich.) – A new opinion from the Michigan Supreme Court (Attorney General v. Eli Lilly and Company) overturns decades of legal precedent, leaving regulated industries and licensed professionals vulnerable to duplicative oversight, increased uncertainty and frivolous lawsuits.
The decision targets the Michigan Consumer Protection Act’s regulatory compliance exemption, which generally shields transactions and conduct already subject to governmental oversight from MCPA enforcement. Now over 80 regulated industries and professions face litigation risks, no longer allowing them to serve Michigan consumers efficiently and safely.
July 15, 2026 | Lansing, Mich. – Following today’s announcement of Gov. Whitmer’s Michigan Affordable and Responsible Growth Action Plan, Michigan Chamber President & CEO Jim Holcomb issued the following statement. Earlier this year, the Michigan Chamber Foundation and partners commissioned an independent Public Sector Consultants(PSC) analysis that concluded Michigan can responsibly compete for data center investment and strengthen public confidence by building on its existing safeguards with practical policy
improvements.
“Digital infrastructure has become essential to Michigan’s economy, and data centers help
power the services, industries and innovations people rely on every day. The challenge isn’t
choosing between economic opportunity and strong community protections, it’s ensuring we
achieve both.
“We appreciate the Governor continuing that important conversation. Many elements of
today’s proposal – including protecting ratepayers and our natural resources, improving
transparency and reinforcing Michigan’s existing safeguards – align with recommendations
from the independent PSC report.
“That analysis concluded Michigan already has a strong regulatory framework and identified
practical, targeted opportunities to build on that foundation while remaining competitive for
investment. The report wasn’t intended to sit on a shelf. Since its release, we’ve been working
with lawmakers, regulators, the Michigan for Responsible Data Centers coalition and other stakeholders
and stakeholders to turn those independent recommendations into thoughtful, balanced public policy.
“Our work has shifted from research to results. We’ll continue working collectively to move the
conversation from debate to practical solutions that protect and benefit Michigan
communities, employers and our economy alike.”
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July 15, 2026
Michigan Chamber President & CEO Jim Holcomb issued the following statement regarding today’s decision by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) to reissue a key permit for the Great Lakes Tunnel project:
“Safe, reliable and affordable energy is foundational to Michigan’s employers, families, communities and economy. The Great Lakes Tunnel is a major investment and commonsense solution that enhances protection of the Great Lakes while ensuring the long-term reliability of critical energy infrastructure across our state and region. We applaud today’s decision and look forward to seeing this important project become a reality.”
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Consultants commissioned by Michigan business groups recommended that lawmakers shore up the state’s data center regulations to address public concerns about the facilities and to leverage greater economic benefits from them.
LANSING — Michigan should enshrine and strengthen data center regulations to ease residents’ concerns and do more to ensure that the facilities attract other investment and jobs, according to a report commissioned by business groups.