HB3711 Summary

• Caps annual energy assistance eligibility at 60% of state median income (or 150% of federal poverty level), with a temporary allowance up to 200% through June 30, 2021.

• Protects the Supplemental Low-Income Energy Assistance Fund from budget sweeps, administrative charge-backs, and other fiscal maneuvers that would transfer funds to other state accounts.

• Increases the Base Energy Assistance Charge from $0.48 to a maximum of $0.96 per month, with incremental increases of $0.16 annually when 80% of prior year funding is exhausted, effective January 1, 2022.

• Requires priority application periods for households with children under age 6, elderly households, and households with persons with disabilities for energy assistance benefits.

• Extends energy assistance program eligibility to all low-income Illinois residents regardless of immigration status who meet income requirements under the act.