Hernandez-Backed Changes to Expand Home Energy Assistance for Low-Income Seniors Begin Oct. 1

AURORA, Ill. – State Rep. Barbara Hernandez, D-Aurora, continued to fight for lower prices by backing expansions to the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) that include more seniors and those expansions will become available to Illinois households starting Oct 1.

“The economic burden of higher prices of essential purchases will hit fixed-income households the hardest, and relieving that burden is essential,” Hernandez said. “Starting this October, expansions of LIHEAP assistance for our senior community will reduce utility payments, something that becomes of greatest importance during chilly winter months.”

Hernandez’s successful developments include adjusting the maximum income limitation for LIHEAP assistance annually at the same rate as future Social Security and Supplemental Security Income benefit increases. Additionally, the income eligibility has been raised to no more than 150% the federal poverty level or 60% the state median income.

“Donald Trump is starting pointless trade wars that raise prices and make lives harder for working class Illinoisans,” Hernandez said. “I will do everything I can to combat his misguided policies, and cutting utility bills is one of many approaches to take. Every step away from a high cost of living is a step towards a stronger future for our community, and this administration will not stand in the way of that goal.”

Find more information and applications at
https://dceo.illinois.gov/communityservices/utilitybillassistance.html.