August 30, 2022

Howard Votes for Low-Income Heating Assistance

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Howard Votes for Low-Income Heating Assistance

Disappointed Plan Doesn’t Help More Families

STONINGTON- State Rep. Greg Howard (R-43) voted in favor of the new Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) allocation plan which anticipates $79 million in federal funds in the Appropriations Committee on Monday.

Although, Rep. Howard expressed strong disappointment that the final LIHEAP plan was $50 million less than from last year, representing a 40% cut to Connecticut working families. This is also lower than pre-pandemic LIHEAP levels.

Rep. Howard along with the Republicans on the Appropriations, Energy & Technology and Human Services Committees, proposed an amendment to the LIHEAP plan which would restore funding to continue current LIHEAP benefit amounts at Fiscal Year 2022 levels. Expand assistance to more residents by providing a $330 benefit to households making between 61%-120% of state median income. This reaches a family of four earning approximately $150,000 or less. And finally, address deliverability concerns and ensure an adequate number of vendors are able to participate in LIHEAP to meet the needs of CT families. That amendment was ruled out of order and opposed by a mostly party-line vote.

“This program is a public safety issue; and it is absolutely vital for those on fixed incomes, particularly seniors who are struggling in this economy,” Rep. Howard said, who represents the communities of Stonington and North Stonington. “The LIHEAP program is a lifeline to many, and I am disappointed the plan to expand assistance to more families was defeated, especially as the price of home heating oil is averaging over $4.25 per gallon.”

Currently, the state’s Rainy Day fund has reached its statutory maximum of 15% of General Fund appropriations.