|
For Immediate
Release
6/27/06
CONTACT:
PA
Senate Republican Communications
(717) 787-6725
Robbins
Introduces Measure to Maximize Home Heating Assistance
Establishes Accountability Measures to Ensure Dollars Spent Soundly
HARRISBURG -- State
Senator Bob Robbins (R-50) announced the introduction of bipartisan legislation
which would maximize the use of federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance
Program (LIHEAP) dollars and ensure that heating aid reaches as many
Pennsylvania families as possible. Furthermore, the bill puts in place several
accountability provisions to ensure that funding goes to those most in need.
LIHEAP grants, which do not need to be repaid, are available to low-income
households.
Amongst
other provisions, Senate Bill 1270, the Home Energy Assistance in Time
of Need, or the HEAT ON Act, would:
-
Set
into law that those making 150 percent of the poverty level ($29,025
for a family of four) or less are eligible for LIHEAP. This past
year, approximately 70,000 additional households were made eligible
for grants when income guidelines were temporarily increased to 150
percent.
-
Require the Department of Public Welfare (DPW) to verify the income
of all applicants. This accountability practice is currently not
being utilized and would help curb possible abuse.
-
Require energy vendors that participate in LIHEAP to offer customers
budget billing (even payments over 12 months).
-
Require DPW to utilize all programs and resources to maximize
federal LIHEAP funding. Through various programs of assistance,
including utility customer assistance programs and home
weatherization materials, DPW could garner additional federal
funding.
-
Require legislative participation in the process for adopting a
State LIHEAP Plan.
-
Require DPW to provide thorough audits and monitoring of funds. DPW
would also be required to provide copies of audits to the General
Assembly.
"Last
year, for the first time, Pennsylvania began leveraging state dollars --
approximately $19 million -- to enhance federal LIHEAP funding of $189
million," said Sen. Robbins. "With the Commonwealth playing a more
active role, it is important that the General Assembly have greater
oversight in this area. The HEAT ON Act would not only maximize federal
LIHEAP dollars, it would also expand eligibility for the program, and
ensure greater accountability."
"Although it is warm right now, home heating costs will soon be of
concern to low-income households," said Robbins. "As such, it is
important that we address this issue as quickly as possible."
Senate
Bill 1270 has been referred to the Senate Public Health and Welfare
Committee for consideration.
 Print this page
E-mail
this page
|
