Bill > LD1585

This bill directs the Maine State Housing Authority (MSHA) to modify its existing fuel assistance program rules to mandate that benefit payments for wood fuel be made directly to vendors before the fuel is delivered. The bill specifically requires MSHA to update its administrative rules under Title 30-A, chapter 201, subchapter 13, which governs fuel assistance programs. These rule changes will be classified as "routine technical rules" under Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2-A, which typically means they are administrative in nature and do not require extensive legislative review. The primary goal of this bill appears to be ensuring that wood fuel vendors receive payment upfront, which could help low-income residents more easily access heating fuel during cold Maine winters by providing vendors with guaranteed payment before fuel delivery.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1585&snum=132