SUPPORT OF ADEQUATE FUNDING OF THE
WEATHERIZATION ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
WHEREAS,
the Department of Energy=s Weatherization Assistance Program enables low-income
families to permanently reduce their energy bills by making their homes more
energy efficient; and
WHEREAS,
on average, weatherization reduces heating bills by 31% and energy bills by
$250.00 per year; and
WHEREAS,
weatherization benefits our nation by reducing our energy dependency, improving
the environment, and stimulating economic development in low-income
communities; and
WHEREAS,
high energy costs during peak heating and cooling seasons create an
unmanageable burden for low-income families, who spend an average of 14 percent
of their annual income on energy costs, while other households spend only about
3.5 percent; and
WHEREAS,
weatherization helps low-income families achieve a higher level of financial
stability by reducing their energy costs and freeing limited resources for
other uses; and
WHEREAS,
increasing the energy efficiency of homes and apartment buildings will result
in a decrease of the occupant’s energy costs,
NOW,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that The United States Conference of Mayors urges
Congress to pass energy legislation that fully and adequately funds the
Department of Energy=s Weatherization Assistance Program.
©2004 U.S. Conference of Mayors 