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Lawmakers hear call to add cooling assistance to LIHEAP as heat waves intensify
Summary
Representative Sherman urged adoption of H.10498 to expand Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program benefits to include summer cooling support — up to $500 per eligible household for air conditioners, fans, installation and bill relief — with at least 10% of funds set aside for underserved communities.
Representative Sherman testified in support of H.10498 to expand LIHEAP to cover cooling assistance for low‑income households, arguing that heat waves are now a public‑health risk and cooling access is a necessity for seniors, children and people with disabilities. "Access to air conditioning is no longer a luxury. It's a public health necessity," Sherman said, asking the committee to adopt measures to provide up to $500 for equipment and installation and to permit funds for bills associated with cooling.
Supporters said the measure would direct a share of program funding to communities that face higher heat risk due to housing quality, urban heat islands and socioeconomic vulnerability. The bill would set aside at least 10% of annual program funding for cooling and prioritize underserved areas for outreach.
Ending: Representative Sherman asked the committee to report the bill favorably to provide immediate relief and equitable access to cooling for vulnerable residents.
