Propane dealers commented on the increase they are seeing in the cost of propane and the impact on families, especially those on fixed incomes. A representative from Al's Gas commented that they are seeing more people who are ordering the smallest quantity possible and who are now using credit cards to pay for the purchase.

 

Jeanna Machon, Assistance Deputy Director, Department of Social Services, Family Support Division, said that benefit levels have been flat for the past 10 years except for two small increases in the last two years. She agreed that the EA benefit for propane users will do little toward getting a delivery of gas at the prices we are seeing. Energy Assistance staff indicated that many clients used their Energy Assistance benefits and Crisis funds to get their service restored and then had nothing left to fall back on when their bills got high in the colder months. When the LIHEAP energy assistance program was started, it was intended that the benefit would give clients a head start for the winter. Unfortunately, with the high cost of propane and natural gas, that is not the situation today.

 

More meetings and brainstorming sessions need to be held to formalize a strategy for the future to provide a more meaningful and helpful program to the low-income population throughout the state.