FARGO, N.D. (PNS) – This month, Congress could give final approval to a one-trillion-dollar infrastructure bill.

With cold weather on the horizon, there could be extra money to help qualifying North Dakotans protect their homes from winter chills. Since the mid-1970s, the Weatherization Assistance Program has helped low-income homeowners and renters make their homes stronger and more energy-efficient. Its usual annual budget is about 300-million dollars, and the infrastructure plan would tack on three-point-five billion.

Andrea Olson, of Community Action Partnership of North Dakota, says its weatherization staff often works with seniors who want to stay in their own homes, but need assistance to make them livable.

Upgrades often include furnace repairs and installing insulation. Currently, there’s a waiting list of nearly 300 in North Dakota for weatherization services, and Olson says the additional funding would allow them to expand their reach. This version of the infrastructure bill has bipartisan support, after Republicans argued the original plan was too large.

Brandon Kjelden coordinates these services in southeastern North Dakota. He says certified crews do a lot of important work to ensure a home is energy efficient and safe.

Fuel-burning appliances also are tested to ensure they’re not emitting harmful emissions. Agency officials say that protects the health of residents, and helps them avoid future medical costs.

And Olson says investing in home weatherization is also an economic boost to local communities.

The Senate already passed the spending bill, and a final House vote is expected by the end of this month.