Capuano asks Pelosi to support heating oil assistance

by Neil W. McCabe

This week, the congressman for the neighborhood with other regional lawmakers signed a letter to Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D, San Francisco, seeking her help securing more government help for low-income home heating oil consumers.

"I joined other members of the New England Congressional Delegation in sending a letter to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi asking that she consider measures to increase access to the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program either through separate legislation or as part of a second economic stimulus package.," said Rep. Michael E. Capuano, D, North Cambridge.

Rep. Michael E. Capuano, D, North Cambridge

"We are asking for both an increase in LIHEAP funds and an expansion of eligibility requirements so that more families will qualify for assistance. We are also requesting additional funding for Weatherization Assistance programs," he said.

"Although we are in the midst of the summer season, it won’t be long before cold weather returns. The cost of heating one’s home has already increased and is expected to continue rising. It is important that we act now to further fund this vital program so that the assistance will be available when it is most needed," he said.