Michigan’s economy has always depended on reliable, affordable energy. From manufacturers to family-owned logistics companies, energy costs shape whether businesses can grow, hire and compete. That is why the state’s recent antitrust lawsuit against major oil companies raises serious concerns for employers across Michigan.
In January, Attorney General Dana Nessel filed a sweeping federal lawsuit alleging that energy companies conspired for decades to suppress electric vehicles and renewable energy. Regardless of its intent, this litigation-first approach risks creating more problems than it solves, especially in a state where industry, transportation and cold weather make energy reliability essential.
For family businesses, uncertainty is often more damaging than high costs. This case is likely to take years to resolve, with no clear outcome. In the meantime, it sends a signal that Michigan’s energy policy may be shaped in courtrooms rather than through stable, predictable policymaking. That kind of uncertainty can discourage investment, delay expansion and ultimately cost jobs.
Michigan’s own business community has been clear about the risks. A broad coalition representing thousands of employers has warned that the lawsuit could have a chilling effect on the state’s economy and weaken its competitiveness. When employers begin to question whether Michigan is a stable place to invest, the consequences extend far beyond any single industry.
The lawsuit also rests on a questionable premise. It claims energy companies suppressed demand for electric vehicles, yet the market tells a different story. EV adoption has slowed due to cost, infrastructure limitations and shifting consumer preferences. Automakers have already scaled back production and investment after overestimating demand, with significant financial losses and layoffs affecting Michigan workers.
These are not the results of a coordinated conspiracy. They reflect the reality that consumers, not mandates or litigation, ultimately drive markets.
If the goal is to make energy more affordable and accessible, litigation is an indirect and uncertain path. Lawsuits do not build infrastructure, lower fuel prices in the near term or provide the clarity businesses need to plan for the future. Even in the best-case scenario, any potential benefits would take years to materialize.
Michigan has a long history as a manufacturing leader because it has focused on practical solutions that support growth. That means investing in infrastructure, ensuring reliable energy supply and creating a stable environment where businesses can operate with confidence.
Family businesses are not asking for special treatment. They are asking for predictability, affordability and a level playing field. Turning complex energy challenges into prolonged legal battles moves the state in the wrong direction.
If Michigan wants to remain competitive, it should focus on policies that encourage investment and innovation, not actions that risk driving them away.
Palmer Schoening is chairman of the Family Business Coalition.
This article originally appeared on The Detroit News: Michigan businesses need reliable energy, not legal battles | Opinion
Reporting by Palmer Schoening / The Detroit News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Palmer Schoening | USA TODAY Network
