2025 House Resolution 142

Whereas, LIHEAP is a federally funded program that is designed to keep families safe and healthy through assistance programs that reduce the costs associated with home energy bills, energy crises, weatherization, and minor energy-related home repairs. One of the programs available in Michigan through LIHEAP funding is the Home Heating Credit Program. This program specifically assists qualified Michigan homeowners and renters with paying some of their heating expenses; and

Whereas, In May 2025, President Trump submitted his recommendations on discretionary funding levels for the 2026 fiscal year. These recommendations included eliminating LIHEAP. This followed the firing of the entire staff within the United States Department of Health and Human Services that was responsible for administering LIHEAP funds. House Bill 1, named the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” does not include funding for LIHEAP; and

Whereas, Elimination of federal LIHEAP funding would have severe impacts on Michiganders who depend on the Home Heating Credit Program. In testimony before the House Economic Competitiveness Committee, representatives from the Michigan Department of Treasury indicated that the program would not be able to continue without federal funding. In 2022, 248,765 Michigan taxpayers recevied benefits under the Home Heating Credit Program, including residents who are low-income, deaf, or disabled or blind, as well as those who are disabled veterans and senior citizens. Cutting LIHEAP funding would deny these constituents help that they desperately need; and

Whereas, Even if federal funding is appropriated for LIHEAP to continue, the firing of LIHEAP staff could result in significant payment delays, impacting at-risk recipients; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we urge the federal government to ensure continued funding, and reinstate staff, of the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) as they negotiate the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” so that Michigan can continue its Home Heating Credit Program; and be it further

Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the President of the United States, the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, the Majority Leader of the United States Senate, and the members of the Michigan congressional delegation.