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WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman Paul D. Tonko (NY-20) today cheered the advance of his bill H.R. 1355, the Weatherization Enhancement and Readiness Act, out of the House Energy & Commerce Committee in a unanimous vote of 50-0. Tonko’s bipartisan legislation invests in home weatherization efforts to save low-income families hundreds of dollars on their energy bills, while making homes safer, healthier, and more energy efficient.

“With millions of Americans facing rising utility costs and the cold winter months upon us, Congress can and must take action to help lower energy prices,” Congressman Tonko said. “My Weatherization legislation does just that. We know weatherization works, not only serving to lower energy costs, but also making homes healthier and safer. I’m glad to see this commonsense bill move out of committee. We must continue to improve upon this vital program and ensure that our communities have the resources and support they need.”

Data shows that home weatherization reduces energy burden with cost-effective, energy efficiency retrofit investments. Additionally, households receiving WAP services save an average of $372 each year on their energy bills.

H.R. 1355 would strengthen the program by:

• Reauthorizing the Weatherization Assistance Program through Fiscal Year 2030; and
• Raising the statutory Average Cost Per Unit from $6,500 to $12,000, so that households can receive more assistance, and WAP implementers can pay competitive wages and retain their workforces.