S.1700 - LIHEAP Parity Act (119th Congress)
Summary
The LIHEAP Parity Act (S.1700) aims to amend the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Act of 1981. The primary goal is to improve the formula used for allotting funds to states. This involves revising Section 2604(a)(2) of the original act and mandating the Secretary of Health and Human Services to issue regulations for calculating state allotments more accurately.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the LIHEAP Parity Act would change how federal funds for home energy assistance are distributed among states. The new regulations would specify the method for calculating state allotments and the data sources used. This could lead to a more equitable distribution of funds based on current needs.
Potential Benefits
- More accurate allocation of LIHEAP funds to states.
- Improved targeting of energy assistance to low-income households.
- Potential reduction in energy burden for vulnerable populations.
- Increased accountability through specified data sources and update frequency.
- Greater efficiency in the distribution of federal resources.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential disruption during the transition to the new allotment formula.
- Possible resistance from states that may receive reduced funding under the new formula.
- Administrative burden on the Department of Health and Human Services to develop and implement the new regulations.
- Risk of inaccuracies if the specified data sources are unreliable or outdated.
- Uncertainty regarding the long-term impact on energy assistance programs.
Constitutional Alignment
The LIHEAP Parity Act appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble). It falls under Congress's power to legislate on matters related to social welfare programs. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).