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Mass. families delay turning on heat as LIHEAP funds stall
Gov. Healey demands federal release of delayed LIHEAP funds to aid over 150,000 Massachusetts households facing heating emergencies amid a looming polar vortex.
- On Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025, Gov. Maura Healey urged President Donald Trump to immediately release LIHEAP funding, saying `People need heating assistance and they need it now`.
- The federal shutdown delayed LIHEAP payouts from early November to the end of the month, while officials and advocates say agency staffing shortfalls slowed disbursement.
- LIHEAP data show more than 150,000 Massachusetts households and roughly 300,000 Bay State residents rely on assistance, with $13 million leftover from last year's LIHEAP budget for emergencies.
- Extending protections, the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities extended a shutoff moratorium that began Oct. 27 through April 1, 2026, while Healey's office sent letters urging Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Russell Vought to release the highest allowable LIHEAP funds and ensure full staffing.
- Facing an imminent cold snap, Healey warned as a polar vortex is expected next week and the Massachusetts Legislature remains on recess, pausing the energy bill H.4744.
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As temps drop, Healey extends pause on utility shutoff, urges Trump to release federal heat assistance - The Boston Globe
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey said the state will extend its pause on when utilities can shut off the heat on those who can't pay their bill.
·Boston, United States
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources11
Leaning Left4Leaning Right1Center4Last UpdatedBias Distribution45% Left, 44% Center
Bias Distribution
- 45% of the sources lean Left, 44% of the sources are Center
45% Left
L 45%
C 44%
11%
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