PRESS RELEASE: AABE Notes Congressional Steps Toward LIHEAP Funding Increase; Urges Timely Action Before FY26

September 19, 2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

AABE Notes Congressional Steps Toward LIHEAP Funding Increase; Urges Timely Action Before FY26

 

Washington, D.C. — The American Association of Blacks in Energy (AABE) applauds Congressional efforts to increase funding for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) in upcoming federal appropriations bills, as support for America’s vulnerable households remains an urgent, bipartisan priority.

 

Under the House FY26 bill, LIHEAP is set to receive a $10 million funding increase, for a total appropriation of $4.035 billion, while the Senate bill envisions an even larger $20 million boost for FY26.

 

AABE appreciates lawmakers’ recognition that rising energy costs and persistent economic hardship require sustained investment in federal energy assistance, especially as the new fiscal year begins October

1. “Every additional dollar invested in LIHEAP is an investment in family stability, child health, and a safer nation,” remarked Thomas Graham, AABE Interim President & CEO. “We call on Congress to resolve remaining differences and enact these increases on schedule.”

 

Despite these advancements, AABE remains deeply concerned by ongoing proposals to eliminate LIHEAP and the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) in the Administration’s budget. AABE strongly urges Congress to reject these cuts, finalize robust appropriations, and maintain the full array of safety net programs needed for equity and resilience in energy and community services.

"Energy efficiency measures for low-income families, many of whom are trapped by increasing energy costs, remain an essential component of American Energy Dominance. LIHEAP provides financial support and incentive for the conservation of energy resources. This is a non-partisan fact that Congress should support," stated Timothy Alan Simon, Esq., Chair of the American Association of Blacks in Energy (AABE) Legislative Issues and Public Policy (LIPP) Committee and Former California Public Service Commissioner.

AABE will continue to advocate for full restoration of LIHEAP staffing and timely grant delivery, emphasizing that federal oversight and consistent support cannot be replaced by private or philanthropic action alone.

 

 

For more information, contact:
Camille Moore
Senior Vice President, External Affairs
American Association of Blacks in Energy (AABE)
Phone: 202-713-0832
Email: externalaffairs@aabe.org

 

About AABE:
The American Association of Blacks in Energy (AABE) is a national non-profit organization founded in 1977 and headquartered in Washington, D.C. With over 1,800 members and 40 chapters nationwide, AABE is committed to increasing the representation and influence of African Americans and other minorities in energy policy, regulation, research, development, and environmental issues. Through advocacy, education, and professional development, AABE strives to ensure a diverse and inclusive energy sector that benefits all communities.

Contact:
Camille Moore
2027130832 Phone
cmoore@aabe.org

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