Sec. 1. 30-A MRSA c. 201, sub-c. 11-B is enacted to read:

SUBCHAPTER 11-B

WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE

§4965. Weatherization Assistance Program

1.__Definitions.__As used in this subchapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings.

A. "Authority" means the Maine State Housing Authority established pursuant to section 4722.

B. "Eligible household" means a household that is eligible to receive fuel assistance through the authority pursuant to section 4722, subsection 1, paragraph W; section 4741, subsection 15; and subchapter 13 and rules adopted pursuant to these laws. "Eligible household" does not include a tenant who resides in subsidized housing and receives a utility allowance or a tenant whose utilities are included in the rent.

C. "Fund" means the Weatherization Assistance Program Fund established in section 4966.

D. "Program" means the Weatherization Assistance Program established in subsection 2.

E. "Weatherization assistance" means assistance as established by the authority pursuant to this subchapter, based on an eligible household's income level.

2.__Program established.__The Weatherization Assistance Program is established to provide funds or materials to eligible households to improve the energy efficiency of the homes of those eligible households.

3.__Program administration. The authority shall administer the program directly or through regional contract agents. The program may be administered in conjunction with other programs of the authority.

4.__Reporting requirements. The authority shall report annually to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over utilities and energy matters information to determine the amount of funding necessary for the program,