Maine Stands To Get More Heating Aid As Senate Enacts Budget

WCSH -The Senate's approval of a massive spending bill that includes 70 billion dollars for the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq is good news for Mainers looking to the federal government for additional home heating assistance.

The budget bill provides more funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. Senator Susan Collins says Maine's share is expected to be in the range of 10 million to 20 million dollars, which will help offset the rise in heating oil prices.

The budget was approved last night on a bipartisan vote of 76-to-17 after Democrats failed to attach withdrawal timelines for military operations in Iraq.

President Bush is set to sign the measure if, as expected, the House approves the funding Wednesday. read more >>