WASHINGTON, DC – Senators Edward M. Kennedy and John F. Kerry announced today that Massachusetts low-income households will receive $13.2 million in weatherization aid as part of the Weatherization Assistance Program in the continuing resolution for fiscal year 2009 now pending in Congress.

Senator Edward M. Kennedy said, “This aid significantly reduces energy costs for Massachusetts families who need assistance the most. Winter typically brings major increases in heating costs, especially for households with inefficient systems. By providing assistance to make their homes more energy efficient, this legislation will cut heating costs for more families than ever before, and help end the impossible choices so many of our citizens are forced to make each winter between heat and other necessities.”

“While it’s vitally important to secure funding for fuel assistance, it’s equally critical we’re doing everything possible to lower people’s heating bills and reduce the demand on the LIHEAP program,” Senator Kerry said. “Making your home energy efficient this year means lower heating bills for many years to come. This funding gives Massachusetts home owners the tools they need to lower their heating bill and frees up the saved money to help them pay for other essentials.”

The Continuing Resolution for fiscal year 2009 includes a nationwide total of $477.2 million for the Weatherization Assistance Program. The $13.2 million available to Massachusetts is $6.7 million more than the state received for such aid in the fiscal year that ends September 30th.

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