Sep. 24, 2008 - Markey: American Families Will Receive Help Combating Winter Chills
Congress Set to Pass $5.1 Billion for LIHEAP Program, MA Governor to Testify on the Future of Home Heating Assistance Program Tomorrow
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Edward J. Markey (D-MA), a key advocate for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program and senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, today announced that Congress is set to approve a $5.1 billion for LIHEAP, a move that will help mitigate record energy prices for millions of American families.
Rep. Markey said, "After years of under-funding this
critical program to help American families meet high energy prices, I am pleased
that our calls for a full $5.1 billion are being answered. As economic
uncertainty grips the nation and families are tightening their belts, this
funding will ensure that no one will be forced to make a heat-or-eat decision
this winter."
Rep. Markey helped lead an effort to collect signatures on a letter sent
earlier this week to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA.), Minority Leader John
Boehner (R-OH), Appropriations Committee Chairman David Obey (D-WI.) and
Appropriations Ranking Member Jerry Lewis (R-CA.) requesting that the LIHEAP
program receive a funding level of $5.1 billion this year in any ‘continuing
resolution' to fund the government. Rep. Markey was joined on the letter by 94
of his colleagues in the House.
As the member's requested, the ‘continuing resolution' announced last
night to fund the government through next March, contains $5.1 billion for
LIHEAP. The House and Senate are expected to vote on the resolution later this
week.
Rep. Markey, who chairs the House Select Committee on Energy Independence
and Global Warming, will convene a hearing tomorrow exploring both immediate and
long term concerns about LIHEAP and efforts to help families cope with rising
prices. The hearing will feature Governor Deval Patrick from Massachusetts, where 2
out of every 5 homes depend on natural gas for home heating needs.
Information about Rep. Markey's hearing tomorrow at 2 PM featuring Gov.
Patrick can be found here:
Home heating oil prices are expected to spike upwards of $4.60 per gallon
this winter, a record. That could drive the total heating costs for average
families above $4,000.