James M. Jeffords: “I rise to thank Senator Slade Gorton, Chairman of the Interior Appropriations Subcommittee, for his, as well as his…”

“I rise to thank Senator Slade Gorton, Chairman of the Interior Appropriations Subcommittee, for his, as well as his staff's, efforts to work with me and my staff to address concerns regarding a potential funding freeze for the Weatherization Assistance Program. I am very pleased that the Chairman was able to obtain an additional $2 million, at my urging, for the Weatherization Assistance Program, increasing the FY 2000 funding level to $135 million. Weatherization is an especially critical program to the Northeast-Midwest region. It increases energy efficiency in low-income homes, reducing energy use by up to one-third. More than four and a half million households have been weatherized through this program over the past twenty years. Weatherization returns $1.80 in energy savings for every dollar spent; and provides an additional $0.60 in employment and environmental benefits. This year, 31 Senators voiced support for an increase in weatherization funding. In light of recent forecasts of rising fuel costs, weatherization funding has never been more critical. By providing targeted support in anticipation of extreme weather conditions, we can ensure the health, safety, and well-being of millions of low-income families, including the especially vulnerable populations of low-income children and elderly.”