WASHINGTON, D.C. – Montana’s Congressman, Denny Rehberg, today announced the inclusion of $31,633,000 for Montana in Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funding in the House-passed Continuing Resolution.  This is an increase of more than $17 million from last year. LIHEAP is the Federal government’s primary means of helping low-income households pay home energy bills and prevent utility shut-offs.

          “With energy costs expected to reach record highs this winter, it’s now more important than ever to help Montanans in need,” said Rehberg, a member of the House Appropriations Committee.  “In Montana, keeping warm in the winter isn’t a luxury – it’s a necessity.  With winter right around the corner, this LIHEAP funding is critical.”

          The Energy Information Administration forecasts that households using home heating oil will pay an average of $2,524 this winter, nearly triple the amount in 2004.