Continuing Resolution Includes $5.1 Billion for LIHEAP

On September 30, President Bush signed into law H.R. 2638, the "Consolidated Security, Disaster Assistance, and Continuing Appropriations Act, 2009." This continuing resolution bill (CR) provides appropriations for the operation of the federal government through March 6, 2009 and includes $5.1 billion for LIHEAP.

Of the $5.1 billion, $4.509 billion will be released to states as regular block grants. Of the $4.509 billion, $3.67 billion will be released under the "old formula"; approximately $840 million will be released under the "new formula". In addition, $590 million will be available in emergency contingency funds.

In addition, the CR increases the eligibility ceiling from the greater of 150 percent of poverty or 60 percent of state median income to the greater of 150 percent of poverty or 75 percent of state median income.

The Continuing Resolution also increases FY 09 Weatherization Assistance Program funding from $227 million to $477 million.

Source: Department of Health and Human Services

Page Last Updated: September 24, 2009