Bill No.: HB0124 Drafter: DKG

LSO No.: 06LSO-0411 Effective Date:

Enrolled Act No.: HEA0016

Chapter No.: 81

Prime Sponsor: Task Force on Utility and Tax Relief

Catch Title: Low income home energy assistance program.

Subject: Low income home energy assistance program.

Summary/Major Elements:

· Currently a low income energy assistance program exists in Wyoming. The program provides grants for residential energy bills and for weatherization. The program, administered by the department of family services, has been primarily federally funded.

· This bill establishes in statute a state component to the program. In doing so, the bill requires a state plan and specifies certain components of the state plan including:

o That not less than twenty-five percent of the funding be used for weatherization assistance (an increase in the current percentage dedicated to weatherization);

o Eligibility thresholds of the greater of 215% of the federal poverty level or an amount equal to 60% of the state median income (this broadens eligibility from the current plan). The increases can be modified if needed to meet federal funding requirements.

· Contains an appropriation of $3,000,000.00.

Comments:

· Popular name - LIEAP

· Creates/amends major program – creates a state low income home energy assistance program.