"LIHEAP and the Weatherization Assistance Program are crucial to many Maine families and many of the state's retirees who live on fixed incomes," said Michaud. "Mainers should not have to turn over their Social Security Checks and stimulus rebates, search for second or third jobs or resort to hazardous makeshift solutions just to stay warm this winter."

LIHEAP aids families by providing financial assistance towards a household's energy bill, offers emergency assistance if a household's home energy service is shut off, and a range of other energy-related services.  The Weatherization Assistance Program helps low income families make low-cost energy efficiency improvements to their homes such as adding weather-stripping to doors and windows, installing better insulation in attics and replacing dated heating equipment such as old thermostats.

Earlier this week, Michaud joined members of the New England Delegation in signing a letter to Speaker Nancy Pelosi urging her to increase funding and expand eligibility for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and the Weatherization Assistance Program.

"I will continue to push for legislation that will make a difference to Mainers this year, including requiring releases from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve and the North East Home Heating Reserve, eliminating the harmful effects of speculation in the energy markets, and encouraging oil companies to increase their drilling and refining efforts.  I will also continue to work with my fellow Members of Congress to ensure assistance programs like LIHEAP and the Weatherization Assistance Program are adequately funded," Michaud said.

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