Rep. Dennis Kucinich

Washington, Jul 23, 2008 -

Today Congressman Dennis Kucinich (D-OH) called for an additional stimulus package that includes $3.1 billion in aid to fund the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). 

The Ohio Department of Development recently reported that it has $17 million less than last year to help low income households pay their energy bills. In response, Cuyahoga County was forced to cut assistance checks from $175 to $100. Ohio needs help in order to protect the most vulnerable members of society: children, the elderly, and the disabled.

The full text of the Congressman’s remarks follow:

“In the face of rising demand for help with home energy costs, the Ohio Department of Development reports it has 17 million dollars less than last year to help low income households pay energy bills. Cuyahoga County was forced to cut assistance checks from $175 to $100. The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program funds have helped millions of Americans stay cool in the summer, and warm in the winter. However, LIHEAP dollars have been stretched to the breaking point as more and more people find it impossible to pay their energy bills. It is outrageous that the most vulnerable Americans, children, the disabled, and the elderly go hungry and develop long term health problems as the profits of oil and other energy companies skyrocket. I support a second stimulus package that includes $3.1 billion for the LIHEAP Program. But I believe that we must also redouble our efforts to address the economic policies that create and perpetuate energy insecurity. Support a second stimulus package for these Americans who rely on the LIHEAP Energy Program.”

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