Schakowsky Helps Secure More Than $150 Million to Lower Energy Costs for Illinois Families

WASHINGTON - Today, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, a Senior Chief Deputy Whip and Chair of the Consumer Protection and Commerce Subcommittee of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, announced that Illinois will receive $156,248,481 from the Department of Energy's Weatherization Assistance Program. About 11% of households in the United States reported keeping their homes at unsafe temperatures to keep costs down. Thanks to President Biden's Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, millions of American households will have the resources they need to be more energy efficient.

"In recent weeks, I have heard from so many of my constituents in the 9th Congressional District who are struggling to make ends meet," said Congresswoman Schakowsky. "Russia's unprovoked attack on Ukraine has burdened American families with higher energy costs. Corporations continue to exploit the situation by raising their prices, raking in record high profits. Meanwhile, families are being forced to choose between paying their energy bills and putting food on their tables. The Weatherization Assistance Program will have a profound impact on families in Illinois and across the country. I fought hard to ensure the Infrastructure Law included assistance for middle-class Americans and I am proud to announce that help is finally on the way."

In addition to the Weatherization Assistance Program, Schakowsky highlighted the Low-Income Heating Assistance Program. Thanks to the American Rescue Plan, the Department of Health and Human Services has designated $4.5 billon to provide direct assistance, through states, to low-income households for heating and cooling costs.

"These programs will not only lower energy costs, but they will also create numerous jobs and promote a healthier, safer way of life," Schakowsky continued. "I am honored to fight on behalf of so many hardworking Illinoisans."

Click here to read more about the Department of Energy's Weatherization Assistance Program.

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