Senators Collins, Reed, and Murkowski Urge Biden Administration to Release LIHEAP Home Heating Aid

Washington, D.C. – With colder weather around the corner and Congress continuing its work on appropriations bills, U.S. Senators Susan Collins, Jack Reed (D-RI), and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) are leading a bipartisan call for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to release funds for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) as swiftly and at the highest level possible.

“As Congress works to finalize the Fiscal Year 2025 appropriations bill for the Department of Health and Human Services, we urge you to immediately release the highest amount of Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funding available under the Continuing Resolution,” the Senators wrote.

The Senators say the federal LIHEAP funding is a crucial lifeline that keeps vulnerable citizens safe and warm during winter by helping low-income households and seniors on fixed incomes pay their energy bills. Nationwide, an estimated 5.1 million households received assistance with heating and cooling costs through LIHEAP in FY 2023.

Senators Collins, Reed, and Murkowski helped provide a total of $4.1 billion for LIHEAP in fiscal year 2024, with $4 billion through appropriations and $100 million in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds. $41.5 million of these funds went to Maine households.

LIHEAP is administered by states and accessed through local Community Action Agencies.  Eligibility for LIHEAP is based on income, family size, and the availability of resources. Senior citizens and those receiving Social Security Disability or SSI benefits are encouraged to apply as early as possible, but applications will be open to everyone through spring of 2025 — or until the funding is exhausted.

The complete text of the Senators’ letter can be read here.

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