WILLIAMS ASKS GOVERNOR FOR MORE LIHEAP SUPPORT

HARRISBURG, JUNE 24 – State Sen. Connie Williams signed onto a letter asking the governor to strengthen the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program so that more people would qualify.

“Warm summer weather may have pushed thoughts of the cold winter months aside, but it is imperative that we revisit LIHEAP now and look at ways to expand the program so that when cold weather returns Pennsylvanians are ready,” Williams said. “One of the ways is to raise eligibility limits.”

The letter asked Gov. Ed Rendell to restore income eligibility to 150 percent of the federal poverty level (up from the current 135 percent), and to consider a state appropriation of $50 million for LIHEAP as part of current budget negotiations. The state appropriation would increase the program by 40 percent, which serves about 400,000 households.

“This means that 160,000 households would be served and grant amounts could be increased to a more meaningful level,” Williams noted.

The letter also requested the reinstatement of an option that would allow utility customers who are paying on arrearages to receive crisis grants. Finally, the letter asked the governor to extend the crisis program deadline until at least April 30 (or longer) if funds are available.

“Many Pennsylvanians rely on LIHEAP to help them heat their homes in the winter,” Williams said. “This is an essential safety-net program that really is making a difference for people who need assistance. Making these few changes would make it even more effective for Pennsylvanians.”