News

Maine looks to improve heating assistance program

Maine looks to improve heating assistance program

Photo: 560 WGAN Newsradio


AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) Maine might make it easier for residents to access heating assistance.

The state’s housing authority provides assistance via the Home Energy Assistance Program. Lawmakers are considering a proposal to direct the housing authority to use state money to improve application waiting and approval times.

Proponents of the move have said the state could improve the wait times by hiring temporary workers, purchasing technology or contracting with a third party. The Maine Legislature voted to enact the proposal on Tuesday.

Democratic Rep. Raegan LaRochelle of Augusta said the bill is a response to the fact residents have been unable to receive money in a timely fashion. More money has been allocated to heating assistance programs than ever before due to pandemic relief funds, supporters of the proposal said.

Home heating costs in Maine are among the highest in the nation because of cold temperatures, old infrastructure and reliance on heating oil.

The proposal approved by the Legislature also directs the housing authority to create a working group to find ways to make the assistance program more efficient in the long run.

Latest Headlines

35 minutes ago in Local

Drought Gets Worse Across Maine Impacting Drinking Water

Fresh

Drought conditions across the state have worsened over the past week.

1 hour ago in Local

Maine Housing Market Becoming More Buyer Friendly

Fresh

Sellers and buyers are on more equal footing for negotiating their home purchase.

2 hours ago in Local

3 face drug charges after raids in New Gloucester, Lewiston

A month-long investigation into drug trafficking in New Gloucester and Lewiston led to three arrests on Wednesday.

2 hours ago in Local

Man accused in high-speed pursuit in Kennebec County arrested after crashing into construction zone

Police say a man led them on a high-speed chase in Clinton before crashing in a construction zone on Tuesday.

10 hours ago in Local

Maine State Police Lobby Against Red Flag Law

Maine State Police and the state Department of Public Safety strongly oppose the Red Flag Law.