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This winter season will be especially difficult for seniors and those on a fixed income. Winter heating bills are expected to increase dramatically this year due to higher demand and lower production at natural gas facilities affected by hurricanes Katrina and Rita. My colleagues in the Michigan House and I have introduced legislation to provide help to citizens struggling to pay high heating bills. Our bills will, among other things: ban utility companies from shutting off heat service during the winter; increase energy assistance funds; and give residents a tax deduction if they winterize their homes. You don't have to wait for this legislation to become law. There is help available now. The Michigan Department of Human Services offers help with home heating and weatherization costs to ease the burden on our citizens during our long winter season. The department offers basic heating assistance through Michigan's Home Heating Credit; crisis assistance for those facing energy emergencies, including energy-related home repairs; and weatherization assistance to low-income households. These services reduce energy use and lower utility bills. To get more information about heating assistance programs, go to www.michigan.gov/heatingassistance.