Sen. Gillibrand calls for more funds for weatherization
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DEWITT, N.Y. -- Senator Kirsten Gillibrand continues to rally local support as she calls on the president to increase funding to a program that facilitates weatherization of homes across the country.
Gillibrand joined local agencies in DeWitt Friday as part of a statewide tour.
She wants $250 million put toward the Weatherization Assistance Program. The numbers show weatherization has helped to change energy usage in seven million homes over the past 33 years, saving individual homeowners an average of $400 a year.
“Weatherization has been at the forefront of residential energy conservation. A very small federal program, which has really led the way,” said Andy Stone, New York State Weatherization Directors Association.
“It not only helps to lower the cost for that family, but it lowers the cost for that family every single month, and every single year. It's a long term change because you're modifying their homes. It also helps the local economy, because you're employing local construction workers. You're employing local manufacturers and other businesses. So it's a great economic engine and I think it makes a big difference,” said Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand.
Gillibrand is hoping bi-partisan support will help push through the additional funds.