The following report by Call 4 Action reporter Meghan Jones first aired Oct. 18, 2005, on Channel 4 Action News at 5 p.m.

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We have seen some relief at the pump this week.

But everyone is still bracing for the increases in their winter heating bills.

Here's what you need to know about how some proposed legislation could affect your bottom line.

Most gas stations we found were at $2.46 or $2.49 for a gallon of regular unleaded. Those are pre-Hurricane Katrina prices.

Still, U.S. Sen. Harry Reid announced that he is looking at price-gouging legislation that would provide the president greater authority to prosecute gougers.

He is also proposing a temporary "windfall" tax on oil company profits to provide a rebate to working families.

That proposal does not have much support with Republicans.

However, one proposal that does have a lot of support is increasing the Low Income Heating Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

A letter was sent to U.S. Congressmen and was signed by 28 governors, including Gov. Ed Rendell.

The letter requests an increase in federal funding in LIHEAP. The LIHEAP program provides utility assistance to low-income people.

Pennsylvania is one of only a few states that offers no state funding for the LIHEAP program.

State Sen. Jay Costa is proposing legislation that would add $80 million in state funding to the federal program. It would also allow more people to qualify for the assistance.

The LIHEAP program becomes available Nov. 7. The three major utility companies will hold joint programs Nov. 18 and Nov. 19 to help people sign up for the program.

The LIHEAP signup will be available at eight locations throughout the Pittsburgh area.

You should contact your gas company for the location closest to you.

For more information, check out energyhog.org.