U.S. Sens. Collins, Reed among lawmakers urging HHS to release LIHEAP funding
U.S. Sens. Susan Collins (R-ME) and Jack Reed (D-RI) are among a coalition of senators urging the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to release funds for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) as soon as possible.
The senators also said that the funds should be released at the highest level possible in time for the upcoming winter months.
“During our long winters, vulnerable Mainers rely on the LIHEAP program to keep warm during the colder months,” Collins said. “This funding will help ensure that low-income families and seniors do not have to make the impossible choice between paying for heat and paying for food or medicine. As we combat the ongoing public health and economic crisis, it’s important that the Administration move quickly to distribute these critical funds appropriated by Congress.”
Collins and Reed were among 40 senators who made the request in a letter to HHS Secretary Alex Azar.
The federal budget set aside $3.7 billion for LIHEAP in the fiscal year 2020 appropriations. Also, an additional $900 million was allocated for LIHEAP in the CARES Act. LIHEAP is a federally funded program that provides low-income households with help paying a portion of their heating and utility bills. Eligibility is based on income as well as the number of residents.
