Gov. Evers announces more than $21 million to help Wisconsin residents pay overdue utility bills

MADISON, Wis. (CBS 58) --- Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers announced more than $21 million to cover utility bill arrearages for more than 36,000 qualifying utility customers across Wisconsin through the Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP).

Gov. Evers announced the initiative on Wednesday, April 28 with the Wisconsin Department of Administration (DOA) and the Public Service Commission (PSC).

The more than $21 million for WEHAP to fund this initiative comes Wisconsin’s federal FY21 allocation for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), officials say.

“I’m pleased that DOA in partnership with the governor could help alleviate this burden for so many families that are dealing with so much right now,” said Joel Brennan, DOA Secretary. “Providing this funding through an already successful program ensures that the funds can be distributed quickly and efficiently without creating additional burdens to the utility customer. This was an easy decision by the Administration and is another example of the governor’s continued commitment to serving Wisconsin’s most vulnerable citizens. We will continue to advocate for initiatives, including the more than a dozen specific proposals in the Governor’s budget, that keep families in their homes, safely and securely.”  

Utility customers experiencing other housing or home energy needs should contact 1-800-506-5596 or [email protected].