OLR Bill Analysis

sHB 5786

AN ACT CONCERNING LOW-INCOME HEATING ASSISTANCE.

SUMMARY:

This bill requires the Department of Social Services (DSS) to develop a plan for funding weatherization projects for low-income households participating in the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP).

Under current law, DSS, in consultation with the Office of Policy and Management secretary, must order community action agencies administering fuel assistance programs to begin accepting applications by September 1 annually, if funding allows. The bill instead requires the agencies to do so, regardless of funding, without being directed by DSS.

EFFECTIVE DATE: July 1, 2008

WEATHERIZATION PROJECTS

The bill requires the DSS plan to give priority to helping households with incomes below 200% of the federal poverty level. It must also coordinate the projects funded by the bill with existing weatherization programs. These existing programs are the utility-administered programs overseen by the Energy Conservation Management Board and the oil conservation programs administered by the Fuel Oil Conservation Board.

The bill requires DSS to submit its plan to these two boards and the Connecticut Energy Advisory Board for their input and advice. DSS must do so by August 1, 2008 and at least 45 days before the plan's implementation. The Energy Conservation Management Board may order modification of the plan to ensure effective prioritization and coordination of weatherization assistance.

BACKGROUND

Legislative History

The House referred the bill (File 318) to the Appropriations Committee, which reported a substitute that eliminated a $ 5. 7 million appropriation to DSS in FY 09 for the weatherization projects.

COMMITTEE ACTION

Energy and Technology Committee

Joint Favorable Substitute

Appropriations Committee

Joint Favorable Substitute