With brutal winter storms likely around the corner, Michigan’s Legislature chose not to go “Full-Metal Scrooge” and ignore the state’s neediest citizens.
On the last day of its session this year, the Legislature on Thursday approved a plan to provide aid to protect low-income residents to prevent utility shut-offs. The plan raises $58 million to keep the heat on in these households.
Lawmakers needed to act because a state appeals court this year ruled the financing system used by Michigan's Low Income and Energy Efficiency Fund was not authorized to continue.
Congratulations to lawmakers for helping to avert a crisis among Michigan’s poor this winter and taking care of business. But the hard work is not finished. The bill passed Thursday is only temporary; now lawmakers must find a long-term solution to provide heating assistance.
