[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 87 (Thursday, June 21, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1177-E1178]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  2001 SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS ACT

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                           HON. NITA M. LOWEY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 20, 2001

       The House in Committee of the Whole House on the State of 
     the Union had under consideration the bill (H.R. 2216) making 
     supplemental appropriations for the fiscal year ending 
     September 30, 2001, and for other purposes:

  Mrs. LOWEY. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of the DeLauro Amendment, 
which would increase funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance 
Program (LIHEAP).
  My colleagues, LIHEAP is the safety net that protects our most 
vulnerable from making a choice between food and heat or air 
conditioning. Many LIHEAP families receive a small amount of support, 
but it's a difference that helps them maintain their dignity.
  Nearly 80 percent of LIHEAP participants receiving heating assistance 
earn less than the federal poverty level. Unfortunately, nearly half of 
the states have exhausted or nearly exhausted available funding.
  In New York--where energy prices increased by more than 20 percent 
over the last year, and this summer they are expected to be higher than 
ever--our LIHEAP funding balance is only $23 million. Last year at this 
time the balance was $35 million.
  Unless we provide added funds to the LIHEAP program, an increase in 
energy prices will force millions of families to chose between

[[Page E1178]]

food and utilities. We cannot stand by and watch people have to make 
that choice.
  Many have predicted that this summer will be one of the warmest in 
recent memory. And if this week is any indication, we're in for a long 
hot summer. I strongly believe that government should have a role in 
ensuring the safety and health of the elderly by keeping them cool.
  Today, we have an opportunity to provide millions of dollars more for 
our neediest families. Let's pass this amendment--it deserves our 
support--to help our states be better prepared for extreme weather and 
have the resources available for those who need it most.

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