Local News
(2006-01-10)
OLYMPIA, WA
(KPLU) -
Help is on the way for low-income families in Washington struggling to pay their heating bills this winter.Majority Democrats in both the House and Senate expect to pass legislation this week.
It will funnel an extra $7.5 million to a low-income heating fund. The money comes from a legal settlement with Qwest Communications.
Pierce County Democrat Tami Green is lead sponsor of the legislation in the House.
"Funding for this winter season will increase assistance to approximately 14,000 additional households at an average benefit of $350 dollars per household."
The extra money will also pay for low-income homeowners to winterize their houses.
Last fall, Republicans asked Governor Christine Gregoire to call a one-day special session on energy assistance.
She declined but promised the legislature would act quickly when it convened this month.
Home heating prices shot up after Hurricane Katrina. © Copyright 2012, KPLU
