House Passes $80 Million Energy Efficiency and Heating
Assistance Bill
BOSTON – With winter coming soon and home heating bills expected to rise by at least 31% this winter, Representative John Keenan (D-Salem) announced the Massachusetts House acted today to pass a major energy assistance and tax relief package. The Heating Energy Assistance Tax Relief – or “HEAT” – bill greatly expands the Commonwealth’s energy assistance programs and support for alternative energy sources. If the bill is passed by the State Senate and signed by the Governor, it would appropriate $20 million for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program and expand access to assistance by raising the threshold from 175% to 200% of the federal poverty level. It would also establish a low-income arrearage program and allow for many taxpayers to deduct their home heating expenses. The bill offers a tax credit of up to $600 and a new zero interest loan program for energy efficiency improvements in homes, as well as a one-time business tax credit for the installation of solar water heating units. It also establishes a zero interest loan program for homeowners installing photovoltaic systems. The bill also establishes a state-wide Green Building Plan and a new Energy Discount Awareness Program. Finally, the legislation institutes a ten day sales tax holiday on certain Energy Star rated appliances. If signed into law, the sales tax holiday would take place from October 13, 2006 to October 22, 2006. “This is a terrific package that appropriately combines energy efficiency incentives and tax credits with fuel assistance measures,” said Representative Keenan, “It combines relief for residents’ immediate home heating needs with provisions that will help increase reliance on alternative energy sources and more energy efficiency.” “With a tough winter expected and many of our low-income neighbors in Salem in need of help to meet their rising energy and home heating costs, this bill is both timely and necessary,” Representative Keenan pointed out, “I hope the Senate will move quickly to pass this bill and that the Governor will sign it before winter arrives in force. I intend to improve the energy efficiency of my own home and I encourage other homeowners in Salem to do the same.” Residents who need help with their home heating bills should call North Shore Community Action Programs at (978) 531-0767 or the Commonwealth’s Division of Energy Resources at (617) 727-4732.
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