FeedsBill expands energy repair offerings
A Senate bill that would allow low-income homeowners to make energy-efficient improvements to their homes was approved by the State Senate Tuesday afternoon.
Senate Bill 1637, which was sponsored by Sen. Tupac Hunter (D-Detroit) is part of a package of bills that expands the Individual or Family Development Account Program in the Michigan State Housing Authority (MSHDA).
The program was created in 2006 to give low-income earners a chance to save for a home, a college education, or a business and receive matching funds from public or private sources.
The Family Development program was modeled on the Individual Development Account program that was established for the same purposes in the Department of Human Services in 1998.
“This is a good program that helps individuals and families improve their lives,” said Hunter. “Expanding the program will give people a better chance to save for what they need, and increase the value of their home by purchasing and installing energy efficient products.”
Specifically, the bill would authorize MSHDA to administer an expanded version of the Family Development program. The other bills in the package, Senate Bills 1635 and 1636, would amend the act that governs the program to allow people to establish accounts to save for qualified home improvements, such as the purchase and installation of a qualified Energy Star product.
Products that are covered by the bills include windows, doors, insulation, high-efficiency heating and cooling equipment, and any appliances such as dishwashers, clothes washers, and
refrigerators.
Though all Michigan residents should try to find ways to save energy – and thereby money – low income residents have a difficult time saving for such improvements after primary expenses are met, said Hunter.
“Allowing people to establish accounts to save for energy efficiency improvements to their homes will help low-income families save on their utility costs, and will also help us in our quest to become an energy-saving, green community,” said Hunter.
After the votes were counted Tuesday, the bill was approved unanimously.
Hunter represents the 5th District, which is comprised of Northwest Detroit, Dearborn Heights and Inkster.
To find out more about changes in the Family Development program, or to determine program eligibly, call (313) 456-3540.
