Access to life saving heating and cooling is a basic human right — and this right should not be reserved only for those who can afford it.
We need to address the life and death crisis of energy injustice, John.
Access to life-saving heating and cooling is a basic human right — and this right should not be reserved only for those who can afford it. Yet one third of all Americans experience some form of energy insecurity.
This lack of energy assistance is a clear public health crisis. That's why we're honored to know that Jamaal is partnering with Senator Ed Markey to reintroduce the Heating and Cooling Relief Act. This legislation is designed to invest in and expand the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to open access to energy assistance.
Our government has to take the necessary steps forward to end energy poverty, promote healthy housing conditions, and support a just transition away from fossil fuel consumption. John, if you stand with Jamaal in the fight to end this racial and economic justice issue, please add your name in support of the Heating and Cooling Relief Act today.
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There is no reason why, in the richest nation on Earth, people in our communities should be forced to choose between staying warm in the winter (or cool in the summer) and being able to make rent or put food on the table.
The Heating and Cooling Relief Act is set to address the following aspects of our energy crisis:
- Increases federal Home Energy Assistance Program funding to $40 billion per year and expands eligibility so no household pays more than 3% of their annual income on energy costs.
- Minimizes barriers to applying for and administering LIHEAP by allowing households to self-attest to eligibility criteria.
- Ensures all eligible households can have their utility debt cleared, prevents utility companies from shutting off utilities, and requires utility companies to set up discount payment plans.
- Ensures states can use LIHEAP to address climate adaptation and reduce energy costs by increasing funding for home repairs that support a needed transition off of fossil fuels.
Jamaal has been a steadfast champion for energy and utility justice since being elected to Congress — but he can't do this work alone. The more support we have for this momentous legislation, the stronger our impact will be in Congress.
We need as many activists in the fight to address the life and death crisis of energy injustice that disproportionately affects Black, Latino, and Indigenous households who are all experiencing unjustly high energy burdens. Add your name today to support the Heating and Cooling Relief Act today.
In solidarity,
Bowman for Congress
