Excessive Heat Causes Death: Proposed Measures by the US to Safeguard Vulnerable Populations
In today's hotter-than-ever climate, old cooling strategies such as temporary heatwave shelters are no longer sufficient. Heat-related deaths are more common than those from natural disasters like hurricanes and floods, with around 1,220 deaths per year due to extreme heat, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The true extent of the issue may be underestimated due to inconsistent reporting methods.
To combat this, a major change in policy is required to deliver effective cooling solutions to those most in need.
The cost of air conditioning at home has been steadily rising for the past decade, requiring families to consume more electricity as temperatures soar. The National Energy Assistance Directors Association and the Center for Energy Poverty and Climate predict that the financial pressure on families to stay cool this summer will increase by 7.9%, reaching an average of $719 from June to September, up from $661 during the same period last year.
Low-income families are at the highest risk of falling behind on utility bills this summer, potentially leading to utility disconnections and dangerous health effects from heat exposure.
The average energy expenditure for low-income households is about 8.6% of their income, three times higher than for non-low-income households (3%). In 2020, almost 20% of low-income families earning less than $20,000 per year reported having no air-conditioning equipment. It's crucial to expand access to cooling for these families throughout the summer months.
Currently, only 17 states and Washington, D.C. have protections against utility disconnections during the summer, and these protections often only apply during periods of extreme temperatures.
The federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which aids struggling households in paying their energy bills, has seen funding reduced from $6.1 billion in fiscal year 2023 to $4.1 billion for fiscal year 2024, leaving states with limited options for assistance.
Congress should reinstate the $2 billion cut from LIHEAP this year. In the meantime, utilities across the United States should consider voluntarily suspending power disconnections during the summer.
Utilities should also establish bill payment assistance programs offering tiered discounts based on a household's ability to pay. Several states have already implemented successful utility discount programs, such as Connecticut's new initiative providing a 50% discount on monthly electric utility bills for low-income families.
For long-term solutions, we need to invest in proven, cost-effective strategies. Federal programs like the Weatherization Assistance Program and the Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates program can help low-income families stay safe in their homes during both winter and summer. However, these programs need to be adequately funded to reach their full potential.
During heatwaves, cooling is no longer a luxury offering comfort, but a vital measure ensuring the safety of families across all income groups, particularly low-income families.
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