Congresswoman Hochul Cosponsors Low Income Heating Improvement Act

Press Release

Congresswoman Kathy Hochul (NY-26) today cosponsored the Low Income Heating Improvement Act in the House of Representatives, which ensures that LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) funds are directed first to cold-weather states. The bipartisan bill was introduced by Congressman Tom Reed (NY-29), and was also cosponsored by Representatives Brian Higgins (NY-27) and Louise Slaughter (NY-28), among others.

"Many constituents in my district are experiencing tough economic times and assistance like this will provide much needed heat during our often brutal winters," said Congresswoman Hochul. "Without increasing federal spending, we will ensure low-income New Yorkers have the heat needed to protect their families."

"This is a common-sense return to the program's original intent," Congressman Reed explained. "Directing heating assistance dollars to cold weather states which need them most is a priority. In cold Western New York winters, heat is not a luxury. It is a necessity."

The bill does not increase LIHEAP funding, but will restore it to its original purpose: funding heat for low-income families and individuals in cold weather states. The formula for allotting funds originally provided greater consideration to low-income households facing cold weather conditions. However, formula changes over the years have shifted the focus toward general energy assistance -- diverting funds away from families who struggle to heat their homes during cold winter months.

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