Rep. Roskam's Push for Liheap Funds Pays Off

REP. ROSKAM'S PUSH FOR LIHEAP FUNDS PAYS OFF

Administration Releases $131 Million in Low Income Heating Funds

Washington, Sep 27 - Congressman Peter J. Roskam (R-IL) today welcomed news that the Bush Administration will release an additional $131 million in Low Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) emergency funds to states—an action strongly advocated by Roskam.

Illinois' share of the emergency funds released by the Department of Health and Human Services will total more than $6 million.

"Families should never have to make the difficult financial choice between paying the energy bill and putting food on the table for their loved ones," said Roskam. "As winter approaches we must in ensure that low-income families in the 6th Congressional District have the assistance to meet their increasing energy needs."

Earlier this month, Roskam joined with his colleagues to urge the Administration to release the remaining $131 million in LIHEAP contingency funds. According to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), U.S. residential energy prices are set to increase between three and 50 percent over last year's levels.

"The Chicagoland area is notorious for its frigid winters and this additional funding will help cover rising energy prices for Illinois families and seniors most in need," remarked Roskam. "I applaud the Administration for this important step."

Source