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SENATE ACTS TO PROVIDE RELIEF FROM HOME HEATING OIL PRICES

FROM THE OFFICE OF SENATOR KENNETH P. LAVALLE

6/16/2008

Senator Kenneth P. LaValle today announced that the Senate has passed the Home Heating Relief Act to help make the price of home heating oil more bearable. Under the measure, homeowners would be entitled to a $1,000 tax deduction for the purchase of heating oil, natural gas, and propane during the winter heating season.

“Heating a home is as essential as putting food on the table, however, families are unable to keep pace with skyrocketing energy costs,” said Senator LaValle. “We can alter our shopping patterns to help reduce our grocery bill, but we don’t have many choices when it comes to heating our home. This measure will provide some relief as we look ahead to the winter months.”

The bill passed in the Senate would provide a tax deduction of $1,000 for heating oil, natural gas, or propane for any individual taxpayer earning $75,000 or less as well as taxpayers filing a joint return and earning $150,000 or less.

“The rising cost of gasoline, home heating oil, and other household necessities have made it difficult for people to make ends meet,” said Senator LaValle. “This Home Heating Relief Act would provide families a much-needed break and ease the stress of trying to manage their household finances.”