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Welch Introduces Bill to Expand Nationwide Heating Assistance Program

Press Release

Date: Feb. 16, 2012
Issues: Unemployed and Low-Income Energy

With unrest in the Middle East driving oil prices higher and record high demand for heating assistance, Rep. Peter Welch (D-Vt.) has introduced legislation to increase funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

The Energy Assistance for American Families Act (H.R. 4026) would increase the authorized funding level for LIHEAP to $7.6 billion per year for the next four years. LIHEAP was last authorized in 2007 with a yearly funding level of $5.1 billion. The $2.5 billion in additional funds will help expand the reach of LIHEAP, which currently serves only 27 percent of those who qualify for assistance.

"This is about priorities," Welch said. "The top five oil companies -- who last year made $137 billion -- receive four billion dollars a year in taxpayer subsidies. At the same time, Vermonters struggling with a tough economy and rising energy prices are being told they should make do with less. It's past time to get our priorities in order."


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