Hoeven Welcomes HHS Decision to Provide $3.4 Million in Energy Assistance to North Dakotans Facing Cold Weather, Propane Shortages

Press Release

Senator John Hoeven today commended the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on its decision to distribute $3.4 million in Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funding to North Dakota to provide heating assistance to the many North Dakotans facing financial hardship due to this winter's record-setting cold temperatures and tight propane supplies.

"The decision to release more LIHEAP funding to North Dakota is a significant and positive development for many of our state's residents, especially our reservations," said Hoeven. "This winter's harsh weather conditions and propane shortages have created considerable financial burdens for many families trying to heat their homes, and the additional allocation of LIHEAP dollars will help ensure that North Dakotans can pay their energy bill and stay warm."

Hoeven has been working with tribal leaders and HHS officials to secure more LIHEAP funding for North Dakota as the state continues to feel the impact of increased propane prices and severe winter weather. Both factors have increased demand for energy assistance across North Dakota and put significant strains on traditional heating assistance funding programs like LIHEAP, creating especially significant budgeting challenges for tribal governments who are working to ensure individuals and families are able to heat their homes. A disproportionate number of these homes are heated exclusively by propane and historically have relied on programs like LIHEAP to help pay home heating bills.

Source