Bill > HR2486

This bill aims to expand and improve the Home Energy Assistance Program (formerly known as the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program or LIHEAP) to address energy affordability and climate change challenges for low-income households. The bill increases funding to $2 billion for fiscal year 2026 and authorizes additional funds for subsequent years, with a focus on helping households cope with extreme heat and cold. Key provisions include expanding eligibility to households with incomes up to 250% of the poverty level or 80% of the state median income, requiring states to work towards ensuring no eligible household spends more than 3% of its income on energy costs, and simplifying application processes. The bill introduces new requirements for energy suppliers, such as prohibiting late fees and shutoffs for assisted households, and mandates the development of year-round assistance programs and improved outreach efforts. Additionally, the legislation creates a grant program to support a just transition away from fossil fuels, emphasizes renewable energy and energy efficiency improvements, and requires states to develop plans for addressing cooling needs and protecting vulnerable populations during extreme temperature events. The bill ultimately seeks to create a more comprehensive and responsive energy assistance system that addresses both immediate energy affordability needs and long-term climate resilience.

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https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/2486/all-info