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UPDATED 6 p.m. with comments from Josh Tardy

Video: Baldacci's remarks

Gov. John Baldacci unveiled an energy plan that he says makes a special session of the Legislature unnecessary.

Maine House and Senate Republicans have repeatedly called for a special session, arguing that the federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program funds would not stretch through December. Democrats had argued that they did, and a special session was unnecessary.

“I have consulted with our experts on fuel assistance, energy and human services, and we are able to take significant action without an expensive and uncertain special session,” Baldacci said. “If that changes, I will use the full powers of the Executive Branch to address any emergency.”

The Department of Administrative and Financial Services is also initiating a pilot program that will allow state employees to either telecommute or work four-day weeks.

Maine Republican leaders are calling for a special legislative session in hopes of increasing funding to the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.

Senate Minority Leader Carol Weston, R-Montville, and House Minority Leader Josh Tardy, R-Newport, hope to add $10 million to the fund. The money would have otherwise gone to Maine’s Budget Stabilization Fund which currently has $160 million.

“There is an immediate need for action,” said Senate Minority Leader Carol Weston, R-Montville, in a release.  “We have funds available to ease the energy burden facing our low income neighbors.  Now we are calling on the Governor and the Democratic leadership to work with us to make sure Maine families stay warm this winter.”