H.R. 9894: Investing in State Energy Act of 2026

This bill would change how quickly the federal government must move money and information to states, Indian tribes, and other eligible recipients under two existing programs:

• The Weatherization Assistance Program, which helps improve homes so they use less energy.
• The State Energy Program, which supports state energy conservation planning and related activities.

What the bill would require

For both programs, the bill would require the Secretary of Energy to act within specific deadlines after federal funds become available:

• Within 60 days, the Secretary would have to release application guidance so states, tribes, and other recipients know how to apply.
• Within 60 days, the Secretary would also have to publish how much funding each state, tribe, or other recipient will get under the program’s allocation formula.
• Within 30 days after receiving a complete plan from a state, tribe, or other direct recipient, the Secretary would have to distribute the funds.

In plain terms, the bill is meant to speed up the process of getting federal energy-assistance money and instructions out the door.

Changes to funding for the State Energy Program

The bill would also change the authorization of appropriations for the State Energy Program. It would set funding at:

• $500 million for the program generally, and
• $100 million per year for each fiscal year from 2027 through 2031.

It would also say that the money should be distributed to states using the formula that was in effect on January 1, 2026.

Overall effect

Overall, the bill would not create a brand-new program. Instead, it would revise existing energy-assistance programs by:

• setting deadlines for the Department of Energy to release guidance and allocations,
• requiring faster payment after a complete plan is submitted, and
• specifying funding levels and the formula for distributing State Energy Program funds.

Relevant Companies

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