Congressional Policy Briefing

Programs Supporting Economic Mobility, Energy Affordability, Nutrition, and Housing Stability

Key Legislative Asks

Support CSBG funding increase to $800M+ for FY2027.
Support Weatherization modernization and reauthorization (H.R.1355 / S.2570).
Increase LIHEAP funding from current FY2026 levels ($4.045B) to full funding at $5.1B.
Support modernization of WIC through the MODERN WIC Act (H.R.1464) and 21st Century WIC Act (S.3842).
Advance bipartisan solutions addressing housing affordability and preservation.

FY2027 Funding Request: $800M+ (FY2026 Funding: $775M).
Supports locally driven economic mobility strategies including job training, financial education, and workforce development.
Administered by State and Community Action Agencies ensuring local control and accountability.
Funding release delays and reduced staffing at the Office of Community Services threaten program operations.
Key Legislation: H.R.3131 – Community Services Block Grant Improvement Act of 2025

FY2026 Funding: $329M core program, $30M readiness fund, $10M training and technical assistance.
Reduces energy costs for low-income households while improving housing quality.
Creates skilled jobs in energy efficiency and building performance industries.
Modernization needed to address regulatory barriers and update cost ceilings.
Key Legislation: H.R.1355 – Weatherization Enhancement and Readiness Act of 2025
Key Legislation: S.2570 – Energy Savings and Weatherization Reauthorization Act of 2025

FY2026 Funding: $4.045B.
Helps households afford heating and cooling costs and prevents utility shutoffs.
Protects seniors, veterans, and families with young children.
Payments go directly to utilities, supporting both households and energy providers.
Key Ask: Increase funding to full funding levels of $5.1B.

Serves nearly 6.9 million mothers, infants, and young children nationwide.
Provides healthy food, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and healthcare referrals.
Virtual certification options significantly improve access for working families.
Modernization waivers expire in 2026 without Congressional action.
Key Legislation: H.R.1464 – MODERN WIC Act
Key Legislation: S.3842 – 21st Century WIC Act

Increasing bipartisan concern regarding national housing affordability.
Focus on preserving existing affordable housing and expanding housing supply.
Energy efficiency investments are recognized as a tool to reduce long-term housing costs.
Ongoing discussions around HUD funding levels and Housing Choice Voucher stability.

Weatherization Assistance Program Appropriations Letter led by Rep. Paul Tonko.

To sign, House members should use this Quill link:

Community Services Block Grant Dear Colleague Letter led by Reps. Fitzpatrick and Costa.

To sign, House members should use this Quill link: