CONCORD - Gov. John Lynch today urged members of the House and Senate to pass proposed heating assistance legislation when they meet tomorrow.

"Thousands of New Hampshire citizens will struggle to pay their energy bills this winter because of the dramatic increases in energy costs. We must act now to help them, " Gov. Lynch said. " I applaud the Republican and Democratic leadership of the House and Senate for bringing this important legislation forward. I urge all members of the legislature to support this effort."

The legislation would provide up to $10 million in additional assistance for the Low-Income Home Energy Program in case the federal government does not meet its responsibility to provide adequate LIHEAP funding. Without action, as of December all of the state 's current LIHEAP funding will be obligated.

The legislation also provides additional funding for the state ' s Electric Assistance program.

"I'm pleased that Democrats and Republicans are working together to find a practical way to provide additional help to New Hampshire citizens that need it the most, while sustaining the energy efficiency programs that will help our citizens, communities and businesses reduce their energy costs for the long term," Gov. Lynch said.