CT HB05958

Repeals and replaces Section 17b-801 of general statutes to transfer administration of state-appropriated fuel assistance and weatherization programs from the Commissioner of Social Services to the Department of Public Utility Control, effective July 1, 2011.

Provides fuel assistance to elderly and disabled persons whose household income exceeds Connecticut energy assistance program limits but does not exceed 200 percent of federal poverty guidelines.

Establishes weatherization assistance program using federal Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Act funds, U.S. Department of Energy funds, and oil settlement funds, with priority-setting and energy audit requirements based on simple payback calculations.

Includes crime prevention and safety program for eligible low-income elderly and disabled persons, offering installation of door viewers, window locks, door locks, and smoke detectors during weatherization work.

Requires Department of Public Utility Control to study and report findings on weatherization program costs, implementation, effectiveness, and expansion recommendations to the joint standing energy committee by February 1, 2012.