The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has terminated all federal staff working on the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which helps low-income Americans afford heating and cooling.
Former employee Andrew Germain confirmed that “every single federal staff member” tied to LIHEAP was let go Tuesday. About 15 employees had worked on the program before the cuts. Staff who handled Social Services Block Grants, used by states to fund protective social services, were also fired.
LIHEAP provides federal funding to states to help prevent utility shutoffs and assist with home energy costs. While 90% of this year’s funds have already been distributed, Germain said roughly $400 million remains unallocated, with no staff left to manage its release.
The cuts are part of a broader Trump administration effort to reduce federal staffing, with 10,000 employees dismissed this round, in addition to 10,000 previously let go.
HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said the restructuring aligns the department with its new priorities. Critics warn the cuts could disrupt critical aid as summer heat approaches.
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