Summary
The federal government shutdown is causing delays in funding for a program that helps low-income families pay their heating bills. Many states are warning that money for the heating assistance program is not available because Congress hasn't passed the needed spending bill.
Key Facts
- Jacqueline Chapman is a retired school aide who depends on government aid for heating her home.
- The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) provides $4.1 billion to help families with energy costs.
- The federal government shutdown has lasted five weeks, causing delays in LIHEAP funding.
- LIHEAP assists 5.9 million households in the U.S.
- Some states, like Pennsylvania and Minnesota, have already announced delays in LIHEAP due to the shutdown.
- President Donald Trump's budget proposed no funding for LIHEAP, but Congress is expected to allocate funds.
- States manage LIHEAP and receive money based on factors like weather and population data.
- Many states cannot issue heating bill payments until the shutdown ends.
