For Immediate Release
January 17, 2008 |
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FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Cullen Schwarz
Office: 202.225.4961
Mobile: 202.225.0471 |
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Levin Applauds Home Heating Assistance
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Congressional Funding for Energy Assistance Is Released by
Bush Administration |
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(Washington D.C.)- Congressman Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak) today applauded the Bush Administration’s release of $450 million in energy assistance to help families struggling to keep their heat on throughout the winter.
“The Bush Administration has finally responded to calls from Congress to release emergency funding under the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program,” said Rep. Levin. “With oil and natural gas costs skyrocketing, many families, individuals with disabilities and senior citizens are finding their home energy costs have become unaffordable. These funds will help those struggling to keep their heat on through the duration of the winter.”
Congress appropriated a total of $2.6 billion in LIHEAP funding in the budget recently enacted – a $400 million increase over last year. Levin and other members of the Northeast/Midwest Coalition of Members of Congress fought vehemently for the increase during budget negotiations. Over $27 million of the funds appropriated will be used in Michigan.
The Energy Information Administration (EIA) estimates that this winter U.S. households can expect to pay between 10 to 22 percent more for heating fuels than during the 2006-2007 winter. In Michigan, 403,971 households used the program last winter, and this year the need has increased even further.
“With rising energy costs we must make this effective energy assistance program available to more families in need,” said Levin.
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To Contact Congressman Levin: -
Email Congressman Levin In Michigan: 27085 Gratiot Ave, Roseville, MI 48066 | (586) 498-7122 | (248) 968-2025
In Washington: 1236 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, DC 20515 | (202) 225-4961
