The following table shows how much each state will receive in Weatherization Assistance Program funds as a result of the Stimulus Plan. The calculations are based on the assumption that the funds will be allocated based on the same formula that was proposed for the Fiscal 2008 funding. The proposed formula was disclosed in the Federal Register in December 2008.
So for Massachusetts, for example, the funding for FY 2008 of $6.48 million will jump to $142.59 million in FY 2009. I have read numerous articles which say the funds have to be spent within 18 months but I have not been able to trace those statements to reliable sources like Appropriation Committee reports.
In Massachusetts the responsibility for disbursing Weatherization funds has been subcontracted to various regional “community action councils” (CAC’s). These same agencies are responsible for handling disbursements of Low Income Heating Assistance funds. I have tried for about a week to get in touch with the person who handles the heating assistance and weatherization programs at my local designated CAC. This does not bode well for the prompt deployment of Stimulus Weatherization funds.
