Rep. Salinas Highlights Lower Energy Bills for Oregonians, Fights to Defend Affordability Program
Salem, OR — Today, U.S. Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (OR-06) joined the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency (MWVCAA), state energy officials, and local homeowners to highlight how federal energy assistance programs are helping Oregonians lower their utility bills. The visit marked the 50th anniversary of the federal Weatherization Assistance Program, which provides energy-efficiency improvements to low-income households across the country.
During the visit, Rep. Salinas toured the home of Deborah and Dennis Jarrett, whose monthly energy costs dropped from more than $400 to approximately $200 per month after receiving federally funded energy-efficiency upgrades, including a new heat pump and an energy-efficient refrigerator. The congresswoman joined the family and local officials for a ribbon cutting celebrating the new heat pump and discussed the importance of protecting federal programs that help families afford their energy bills.
"No family should have to choose between keeping the heat on and putting food on the table," said Rep. Salinas. "The Jarrett family cut their energy bills in half thanks to federal energy assistance programs that are currently under threat by President Trump. The president’s budget proposes to eliminate the very programs that made these savings possible, leaving families out in the cold. In the face of the affordability crisis, we need to do everything we can to give families the tools to make ends meet. I'll keep fighting to protect and expand these programs so more Oregon families can benefit."
The event highlighted the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which helps nearly 60,000 Oregon households pay their heating and cooling bills. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, LIHEAP saved the average Oregon household it served approximately $550 in 2024. The Weatherization Assistance Program, now celebrating its 50th anniversary, helps families make long-term improvements to their homes that reduce energy consumption and lower utility costs year after year.
Despite their success, both programs face proposed elimination under the Trump Administration's fiscal year 2027 budget. Congress previously rejected proposed cuts to LIHEAP on a bipartisan basis and increased funding for the program.
"Our community needs homes that are energy-efficient, affordable, healthy, and safe,” said Rogelio Cortes, Chief Program Officer of Energy Efficiency & Weatherization at Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency. “Weatherization makes that possible by preserving and improving the homes we already have, reducing energy use, lowering utility bills, and addressing health and safety concerns. By saving energy and helping households keep more money for other essential needs, Weatherization helps people remain in their homes with greater comfort, dignity, and stability. These benefits endure long after the work is complete, strengthening our communities for years to come."
During the event, Rep. Salians underscored her support for the Energy Bills Relief Act (H.R. 7977), legislation that would expand LIHEAP to provide year-round heating and cooling assistance, reauthorize the Weatherization Assistance Program, and restore tax credits that help families afford heat pumps and other energy-efficient home improvements.
The visit also highlighted the work of the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency, which helps families throughout the region access energy assistance and weatherization services. Representatives from the Oregon Department of Energy, Portland General Electric, and Oregon Housing and Community Services also attended the event.
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