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More Energy Assistance Could Be On Way For Low-Income New Mexicans

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Tuesday, February 28, 2012   

SANTA FE, N.M. - The New Mexico House and Senate both took steps that could lead to additional energy assistance for low-income New Mexicans when they supported House Joint Memorial 13 during the 2012 Legislative Session. It was introduced by State Representative Gail Chasey (D-Albuquerque), who says there is some help already available.

"One of the things that the utilities already do is pro-rate bills so they're not inordinately high during the colder months."

Still, according to the memorial, New Mexico's assistance program (LIHEAP) coverage ratio is currently less than 14 percent, the second-lowest in the country, and inadequate to meet the needs of the state's most vulnerable residents. The response to the Memorial has Chasey optimistic that New Mexicans who need it could be receiving energy assistance sometime next year.

Before that can happen, Chasey says, at least one obstacle must be addressed.

"There's an old Supreme Court decision that prohibits the Public Regulation Commission (PRC) from moving forward without legislative authority."

That opinion holds that providing such assistance is up to the state Legislature. Chasey says some statutes may need to be changed to give the PRC the authority to offer additional assistance with utility costs.

She says an outline of the legislation to provide additional energy assistance for low-income New Mexicans will be presented by October 31. She says it's possible the energy assistance could be offered before July 1 of 2013.

"Sometimes we don't have to do everything by statutory changes. And if it's something simpler, perhaps there could be some earlier relief."

Chasey says industry and consumer advocates all appear to be on board on this issue. She says a pre-filed bill that is not controversial might be passed with an emergency clause and take effect upon signing.

A copy of the Memorial can be viewed at www.mygov365.com.




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