Bill > S3535

This bill, the Heating and Cooling Relief Act, aims to increase the availability of heating and cooling assistance for low-income households. The key provisions of the bill include: - Significantly increasing funding for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to $400 billion over 10 years, and creating new dedicated funding streams for emergency cooling assistance and a "HEAP Just Transition Grants" program to help reduce energy burdens for low-income households. - Expanding eligibility for LIHEAP to households with incomes up to 250% of the federal poverty line or 80% of state median income, and prohibiting states from excluding households based on citizenship status. - Requiring states to streamline LIHEAP enrollment by allowing self-attestation and waiving documentation requirements, and to expand outreach and enrollment, including through partnerships with schools and energy providers. - Placing new requirements on energy providers that receive LIHEAP funds, such as prohibiting late fees and shutoffs for assisted households, and offering percentage of income payment plans. - Increasing the percentage of LIHEAP funds that states can use for weatherization from 15% to 25%, with a focus on beneficial electrification and renewable energy. The overall goal is to make home energy more affordable and accessible for low-income families, while also supporting a just transition away from fossil fuels and promoting climate resilience.