Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Proposal would create statewide low‑income energy assistance program; stakeholders urge clarifications on funding and allocation
Summary
HB 19 03 would establish a statewide low‑income energy assistance program at Commerce, phased in subject to appropriation; testifiers including community action agencies, utilities and rural co‑ops discussed an estimated $270–275 million annual need, voluntary participation, equitable allocation, and possible use of Climate Commitment Act funds.
Lawmakers heard lengthy testimony on House Bill 19 03, which would create a statewide low‑income energy assistance program administered by the Department of Commerce to reduce energy burdens for low‑income households. Staff told the committee the program would begin providing assistance on Oct. 1, 2027, be phased in subject to appropriation and prioritize service to areas with disproportionate need.
Representative Mena, the sponsor, described the bill as an affordability measure developed with stakeholders; she and…
Already have an account? Log in
Subscribe to keep reading
Unlock the rest of this article — and every article on Citizen Portal.
- Unlimited articles
- AI-powered breakdowns of topics, speakers, decisions, and budgets
- Instant alerts when your location has a new meeting
- Follow topics and more locations
- 1,000 AI Insights / month, plus AI Chat
