Rockford Sun

In light of increasing electricity rates across Illinois, Senate Republicans have introduced new legislation aimed at easing the financial burden on families facing higher utility bills.

Senate Bill 2687, referred to as the Home Utility Relief Act, proposes the creation of a Home Utility Rebate Program under the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO). The program is designed to offer rebates to households earning between 100% and 500% of federal poverty guidelines. This targets families who do not qualify for existing low-income assistance but are still impacted by rising energy costs.

The bill outlines the establishment of a $500 million Home Utility Rebate Relief Fund for fiscal years 2026 and 2027. Any funds remaining after rebates are distributed may be allocated to select first-time small business owners.

State Senator Dave Syverson commented on the situation: "families across the state are already struggling to keep up with the higher costs of living and are now being hit with soaring electricity bills." He added that "working and middle-class families often find themselves with no access to programs to help offset spiraling energy prices."

Syverson, a Republican, has served in the Illinois State Senate since 1993, representing the state's 35th Senate District after succeeding Christine J. Johnson. More information about his tenure can be found at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dave_Syverson.