CT Gets State Funds for Arrearage Program

Connecticut households with high arrears will benefit from $2.5 million in state funds for a program to help them pay their overdue bills. 

The state money has been allocated to a statewide fuel fund, Operation Fuel,  which will administer a one-time program offering grants of up to $1,000 based on an applicant’s arrearage and income level. The funds can only be used for overdue balances up to 24 months old. The program will also provide budget counseling and help with utility payment programs.

The Connecticut legislature allocated $5 million for Operation Fuel last year, but in June Governor Jodi Rell vetoed that and other funding due to concerns about exceeding the state’s spending cap. The Governor later supported adding the Operation Fuel funding to the 2008 budget. 

Another $1.75 million of the $5 million will be used to expand Operation Fuel and another $750,000 to improve its technical and case management infrastructure.

Since 1977, Operation Fuel has provided emergency energy assistance to households with incomes between 151 and 200 percent of federal poverty guidelines through 60 fuel banks throughout Connecticut.

 Source: Governor’s Office, Operation Fuel

Page Last Updated: January 2, 2008