Federal officials had twice tried to kill the program that helps low-income people.
The Trump administration has released the remainder of this year’s funding for a heating aid program it previously tried to kill.
Republican Sen. Susan Collins and independent Sen. Angus King of Maine on Monday confirmed the release of $609 million for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.
Mark Wolfe of the National Energy Assistance Directors’ Association said it’s good timing because moratoriums on winter utility cutoffs are being lifted. He said the extra money will ensure low-income families keep warm as temperatures dip at night.
The Trump administration tried twice, and failed both times, to kill the program. The new budget provides an extra $250 million.
In addition to helping cold-weather states, the program helps people stay cool in blazing summer heat in states like Florida and Arizona.
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