Households should prepare for higher heating costs this season. The National Energy Assistance Directors Association reported that the cost of keeping a home warm this winter season is expected to rise to $976.

This marks an almost 8% increase from last year due to higher natural gas and electricity prices.

The Center for American Progress noted that several gas and electric utility companies have either raised rates or plan to do so this year or next.

Despite this, federal assistance funding for utility bills has stayed at $4 million for the past two years. Lawmakers are expected to maintain this funding level for the fiscal year beginning October 1.

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