Governors from across New England are calling for a sharp boost in federal home heating aid amid soaring oil prices.
The governors, who met in Boston yesterday, are sending a letter to the presidential candidates, U.S. House and Senate leaders and their congressional delegations asking for an increase in the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.
New Hampshire Gov. John Lynch called the situation a looming crisis and said home heating costs have nearly doubled.
Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick and Maine Gov. John Baldacci said states also have to look at alternative energy sources like wind and nuclear power.
Rhode Island Gov. Don Carcieri said the government can do only so much, and that citizens must take steps to reduce consumption.