Senator Tina Smith Encourages Minnesotans to Utilize Energy Assistance Programs to Help Get Through Winter

Washington, D.C. — United States Senator Tina Smith of Minnesota joined R & J News on Thursday to remind Minnesotans who may be struggling to make ends meet due to inflation and the rising costs of energy prices about an energy assistance program that may be available to help. The American Rescue Plan passed by legislature earlier this year more than doubled the amount of funding of the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program and she encourages citizens to check it out.

Providing additional energy assistance is a short-term solution for addressing the increased energy costs. Long-term Senator Smith notes they need to continue to find ways to bring those costs down.

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps keep families safe and healthy through initiatives that assist families with energy costs. We provide federally funded assistance in managing costs associated with home energy bills, energy crises, weatherization and energy-related minor home repairs.