Senator Ryan Statement on the Federal Government Shutdown Effect on HEAP

Christopher J. Ryan

October 23, 2025

“The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) is essential for 52,000 households in Central New York. As the temperature drops and winter approaches, and while National Grid continues to raise their rates, HEAP is critical and one of the last tools available to working people. The prolonged shutdown of the Federal Government has real consequences to programs like these. 
 
During the 2025 legislative session, I introduced S.1966, which would automatically re-enroll eligible households and individuals in HEAP once they qualify. I’m working diligently to ensure legislation is available to protect those working the hardest just to get by. While New York State is working to build-up HEAP and help families with affordability issues, Washington Republicans are working to tear it down. 
 
Affordability is not a partisan issue – where utility bills are rising, we’re looking to where we can cut costs for low-income households. Constituents on both sides of the aisle are struggling to make ends meet, and these actions hurt working families even more. I urge Republicans to call Congress back into session and solve the problem now.”

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