WASHINGTON -- Congressman Jim McDermott introduced legislation Tuesday to provide financial assistance to vulnerable Americans struggling to survive under high gasoline prices.

McDermott said that high fuel prices prompted him to propose $5 billion in emergency money to help those most affected.

The Emergency Gasoline Assistance Act would provide every family that is currently living below the federal poverty threshold with $500 in assistance. State governors would have the flexibility to use the money to create programs that target the specific needs of their communities.

The Congressman's office said the average American family will pay $1,000 more in fuel costs this year than last if gas prices remain unchanged.

The bill would give states the discretion to target families most in need of the gas subsidy, provided the gas is used primarily for transportation to work and child care.

McDermott said he'd like to see the proposal wrapped up into the next economic stimulus package.