Congress returns from its August recess today facing a tight timeline to fund the government. Current funding for fiscal year 2025 expires at the end of this month, as the government is operating under a Continuing Resolution (CR), a temporary funding measure that maintains existing funding levels without new policy changes. To avoid a shutdown, lawmakers must pass all twelve appropriations bills in both chambers and reconcile differences between them before the new fiscal year begins on October 1. This is, of course, very unlikely if not impossible, given the limited legislative calendar. Instead, another short-term CR is widely expected, the duration and terms of which remain uncertain.

This week, the House will begin their work by considering a series of foreign affairs and national security measures, including legislation related to human rights, counter-narcotics, and technology controls. The House will also take up the Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for fiscal year 2026, which sets funding for critical infrastructure, energy programs, and water resources projects.

Yesterday, the House released its draft version of the Labor-Health and Human Services Bill, which includes a $10 million increase to the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP); still $10 million below the Senate proposal but a positive sign given the Trump administration's call to eliminate the program entirely. This demonstrates the strong bipartisan support LIHEAP continues to enjoy.

NEFI is closely monitoring these negotiations and will keep members informed of any developments that could impact the heating fuels industry.