Library: Policy

340:20-1-3. Program operation, components, and priorities

Revised 9-15-22

(a) Program operation.  The operation of the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is contingent upon the receipt of federal funds.  Delay in federal funding may cause changes in planned time frames for the program.

(b) Components.  LIHEAP consists of four components each year federal funds are issued, per Section 8624 of Title 42 of the United States Code (42 U.S.C. § 8624):  • 1

(1) winter heating assistance, during the winter heating application period;

(2) Energy Crisis Assistance Program (ECAP), which has intermittent application periods each year and any time there is a medical crisis;

(3) summer cooling assistance during the summer cooling application period; and

(4) weatherization assistance administered year round by the Oklahoma Department of Commerce (ODOC) with LIHEAP funds allocated to them by Oklahoma Human Services (OKDHS) from federal LIHEAP funding.  ODOC distributes weatherization funds to local Community Action agencies to provide weatherization services.

(c) Priorities.  OKDHS prioritizes facilitating the LIHEAP application process for persons who are 60 years of age and older or disabled, per 42 U.S.C. § 8624.  During the open enrollment period, persons may complete LIHEAP applications online at www.okdhslive.org or by calling an OKDHS county office for assistance in submitting an online application.  When a household lacks transportation, is physically or mentally unable to come to an OKDHS office, or does not have phone or Internet access, staff mails Form 08LH002E, Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Application to the home.  A spouse, natural guardian, legal guardian, or another person may complete a LIHEAP application on behalf of the household.

INSTRUCTIONS TO STAFF 340: 20-1-3

Issued 9-15-22

1. When the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program is not available, applicants are referred to other organizations assisting low-income households with meeting energy needs.  Such organizations include, but are not limited to:

(A) local churches;

(B) Lend-a-Hand, Share-the-Warmth, or Light-A-Life programs administered through the Salvation Army;

(C) community or neighborhood organizations; and

(D) Community Action agencies for weatherization.