ALBANY, New York — Democratic lawmakers are pushing back on Gov. Kathy Hochul’s decision to reduce funding for a longstanding energy efficiency program for low-income households.
The governor’s administration diverted $40 million in federal funding that has historically made up 60 percent of the total budget for a statewide weatherization program. The federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, or LIHEAP, funds will instead be used for immediate bill assistance.
“Republicans in Washington failed to increase funding for LIHEAP to keep pace with rising energy costs, pushing federal responsibilities onto states,” said Hochul spokesperson Nicolette Simmonds. “Governor Hochul has prioritized HEAP funds for those program components that serve households most in need, helping low and moderate-income households across the state pay their energy bills and stay safe in their homes during the summer and winter seasons.”
Why it matters: The move aligns with other actions by Hochul and her fellow Democrats in the region to prioritize near-term bill relief over upfront investments in energy efficiency. But critics argue these types of cuts are shortsighted and that reducing energy usage has long-term benefits for everyone.
