WASHINGTON — The Bush administration decided Thursday to release $100 million in emergency home heating aid, but some said the money won't be enough to help families pay steep energy bills this winter. Health and Human Services Secretary Mike Leavitt said the additional funding would be a lifeline for the 5 million low-income families nationwide who receive energy aid. HHS said it would also provide up to $663 million in block grant funds for states.

Maine stands to receive nearly $1.6 million, an amount that state officials said is not enough to ensure that everyone stays warm this winter.

Rep. Tom Allen, D-Maine, faulted Congress for leaving the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program $3 billion short of its authorized level.

"Though it's good that Maine is getting this badly needed emergency funding, it does not make up for the fact that Congress failed to keep its promise to fully fund the LIHEAP program," Allen said.

Gov. John Baldacci on Thursday signed emergency legislation to allocate $5 million in state money for emergency home heating assistance.