WASHINGTON, DC – This week, the Arizona Delegation sent a letter to Chairwoman Rosa DeLauro supporting the U.S. Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Members of the Arizona Delegation released the following statements after sending the letter:

“Ensuring all Arizonans qualifying for LIHEAP receive their fair share of resources is a huge priority for a state like Arizona, where there are high levels of extreme heat multiple months of the year,” said Rep. David Schweikert. “This appropriations request can help ensure Arizona families are receiving proper care to be kept safe through the desert heat.”   

“As deadly heat waves exacerbated by climate change sweep across Arizona and result in numerous heat-related deaths, it’s critical that our most vulnerable residents have access to cooling assistance,” said Rep. Raúl M. Grijalva. “Instead of cutting the program as previously proposed by the Trump Administration, I’m proud to call for the equitable distribution of LIHEAP funds for Arizona to better ensure that more of our residents can benefit from this critical program and prevent avoidable tragedies.”

“We must make sure that Arizona receives our fair share of funds to take care of our state’s most vulnerable populations – especially during days when extreme heat or cold can be deadly. I’m proud to stand with my Arizona colleagues to push for a fix to longstanding inequalities in America’s primary heating and cooling assistance program.” said Rep. Ruben Gallego

“For some Arizona residents, LIHEAP is the only way to stay cool in our hot and dry summers and warm during our sometimes unpredictable winters. But LIHEAP funds are disproportionately allocated across the country, leaving many Arizonans behind. I am proud to join my fellow Arizona colleagues to request LIHEAP funding disparities be properly addressed to help Arizonans in need.” said Rep. Debbie Lesko

“The extreme heat in our state is a public health crisis, but Arizona’s share of LIHEAP funds ranks last in reaching assistance-eligible populations,” said Rep. Greg Stanton. “We have to combat the alarming trend of heat-related deaths, especially in our most vulnerable neighborhoods. Many of those residents are currently deprived of the important help LIHEAP provides—and Arizona families deserve their fair share of funds to keep their homes safe and cool.”

Background:

This appropriations request was sent to the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health, & Human Services, Education and Related Agencies. The appropriations request does not ask for increased funding but requests an increased impact of the diversion of LIHEAP appropriations and to allocate no less than 75 percent of any new LIHEAP funding that becomes available in the FY20 program formula. 

The letter sent by the Arizona delegation is attached here.

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