Assembly Deputy Majority Leader and Senator Chuck Schumer press the Federal Government to fund the Home Energy Assistance Program.
ELMONT, NY (September 16, 2022) – Today, Assemblywoman Michaelle C. Solages and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer visited Elmont, together applying pressure on the Federal Government to provide funding for the Home Energy Assistance Program namely HEAP.
Funding for HEAP went dry leaving many renters and homeowners still struggling to cover their cost of living. At this time, constituents are having to choose between putting food on the table and paying for their climbing energy bills.
“With the winter season around the corner, this is an ideal time for Congress to make vital investments into low-income energy assistance programs to ensure that everyone can have a warm shelter for themselves and their families,” stated Assemblywoman Michaelle C. Solages, Assembly Deputy Majority Leader. “Thank you to Majority Leader Chuck Schumer for honing in on a critical need for residents. We will continue to work across all levels of government to advocate for policies that enhance the quality of life and make Long Island more affordable.”
“Last year alone, more than 80,000 Long Island households tapped roughly $20 million in federal home energy assistance, and this year families across the Island could need to tap more, and the feds need to be ready for it,” said U.S. Senator Charles Schumer. “So, today, from here in Elmont, I am announcing national news: I will work to add $1 billion in HEAP funds to the upcoming budget, which must pass this month, so Long Islanders can tap those funds and keep pace with rising costs during what could be an especially uncertain winter when it comes to home heating needs.”
Long Island energy bills are set to increase up to 30% leaving those with limited and fixed incomes, especially seniors, vulnerable in the coming winter months. The need for HEAP has not decreased since the program’s inception and is only set to increase as winter and climate change realities are at the forefront for constituents.
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