Rep. Markey said, "After years of under-funding this critical program to help American families meet high energy prices, I am pleased that our calls for a full $5.1 billion are being answered. As economic uncertainty grips the nation and families are tightening their belts, this funding will ensure that no one will be forced to make a heat-or-eat decision this winter."

Rep. Markey helped lead an effort to collect signatures on a letter sent earlier this week to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA.), Minority Leader John Boehner (R-OH), Appropriations Committee Chairman David Obey (D-WI.) and Appropriations Ranking Member Jerry Lewis (R-CA.) requesting that the LIHEAP program receive a funding level of $5.1 billion this year in any ‘continuing resolution' to fund the government. Rep. Markey was joined on the letter by 94 of his colleagues in the House.

The letter can be found here: http://www.globalwarming.house.gov/tools/3q08materials/files/0010.pdf

As the member's requested, the ‘continuing resolution' announced last night to fund the government through next March, contains $5.1 billion for LIHEAP. The House and Senate are expected to vote on the resolution later this week.

Rep. Markey, who chairs the House Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming, will convene a hearing tomorrow exploring both immediate and long term concerns about LIHEAP and efforts to help families cope with rising prices. The hearing will feature Governor Deval Patrick from Massachusetts, where 2 out of every 5 homes depend on natural gas for home heating needs.

Information about Rep. Markey's hearing tomorrow at 2 PM featuring Gov. Patrick can be found here:

http://globalwarming.house.gov/mediacenter/pressreleases_2008?id=0044#main_content

Home heating oil prices are expected to spike upwards of $4.60 per gallon this winter, a record. That could drive the total heating costs for average families above $4,000.

#  #  #