President Obama’s proposed budget for the next year would cut an energy assistance fund for low-income individuals, according to the National Journal.
As the biggest domestic cut so far, it is likely to upset the president’s usual political allies. However, the complaints may satisfy the White House’s desire to convince Americans of its budget discipline.
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program would see a $2.5 billion drop from 2009’s approved $5.1 billion. According to officials, the cuts would not upset the program’s $590 million reserve fund, which is used during particularly harsh periods of cold or hot weather. The number of people who would lose assistance has yet to be determined. Officials said LIHEAP spending has grown in the last several years to keep up with the rising price of gas.
