Sponsors (15)
The bill keeps LIHEAP benefits flowing and state programs operating during a FY2026 funding lapse—protecting vulnerable households—at the cost of fixed prior‑year payment levels and open‑ended emergency spending that can shortchange beneficiaries if costs rise and weaken budget enforcement.
Low-income households will continue to receive LIHEAP heating and cooling assistance during any FY2026 funding lapse at the same monthly rate as FY2025, helping prevent cold- and heat-related health risks for vulnerable recipients.
States will have predictable cash flow to administer LIHEAP during a government shutdown because payments continue at prior-year monthly rates, reducing operational disruption for state LIHEAP programs.
Low-income households could be shortchanged if LIHEAP needs or energy costs rise in FY2026 because payments are capped at FY2025 monthly rates.
Taxpayers face potentially open-ended federal spending during a lapse because the bill authorizes "such sums as may be necessary" for FY2026 payments, creating indefinite emergency outlays.
The provision creates a precedent of continuing programs during shutdowns, which may reduce congressional leverage in appropriations negotiations and complicate budget enforcement.
Based on analysis of 2 sections of legislative text.
Allows unlimited FY2026 Treasury funding to continue LIHEAP state payments during any lapse in discretionary appropriations at FY2025 monthly rates.
Introduced October 3, 2025 by Chris Pappas · Last progress October 3, 2025
Appropriates unlimited Treasury funds for fiscal year 2026 as needed to continue payments to States under the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) during any lapse in discretionary appropriations, using the same monthly payment rate that applied in the corresponding month of fiscal year 2025. The change is time-limited to FY2026 and only covers the specified LIHEAP payments; it does not alter eligibility rules or create new programs.