Richard Moffi, Fuel Assistance Program Chief in the Department for Children and Families talks about how the funding for Vermont's heating assistance program stacks up this year.

A special panel that has the authority to spend money when Vermont lawmakers aren't in session is set to vote on nearly $8 million in funding to help low-income residents heat their homes this winter.

Governor Peter Shumlin joins us to discuss his programs and policies, we touch base with Valley News editor John Gregg on the New Hampshire elections, learn about funding for Vermont's heating assistance program and hear about the political dynasty that is the Diamondstone family.

Governor Peter Shumlin and key lawmakers want the state to add $8.8 million to the Low Income Home Heating Assistance Program.

Funding levels for the federal low income heating assistance program, commonly known as LIHEAP, are below what they were last year, even though the state's congressional delegation was able to pump another $5 million into the program.

A panel of top Vermont state officials who track fiscal issues is expected to approve Gov. Peter Shumlin's request for $6.1 million in state money to make up for cuts in federal heating assistance.

Governor Peter Shumlin and legislative leaders have promised to use state money to make up for federal cuts in a fuel assistance program. The goal is to make sure that low income Vermonters stay warm this winter.

Governor Peter Shumlin and legislative leaders have promised to use state money to make up for federal cuts in a fuel assistance program.

A variety of officials around New England are lobbying Congress to make sure the low-income heating assistance program is funded. Vermont's top legislative leaders sent a letter to the state's congressional delegation pressing for as much money as possible.

Senator Bernie Sanders is working to build a bi-partisan group to support additional funds for the Low Income Heating Assistance Program. Last year, Vermont received roughly $23 million in LIHEAP funds. But the Obama Administration has proposed cutting the appropriation in half.

Vermont faced a possible 40 percent cut in the Low Income Home Energy Assistance program - known as LIHEAP. But because demand for help has increased, the average LIHEAP benefit will be reduced this heating season.