AN ACT CONCERNING FUEL PRICING IN THE LOW INCOME HOME ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM.

HB 5355 updates Connecticut's Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) fuel pricing rules. It requires the Commissioner of Social Services to establish regional fuel pricing standards, reimburse vendors based on the state-posted price on the delivery date, and allow electronic vendor invoices. These changes directly affect low-income households receiving energy assistance and the fuel vendors supplying them, aiming to fairly compensate vendors while maintaining program funding. The new rules take effect November 1, 2025, with pricing standards to be included in the annual plan by August 1, 2025.