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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 08/28/24 </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/bd/3a/168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb/img-1705.jpg" alt="GettyImages-500816293.jpg" width="2902" height="1671" style="height: auto; max-width: 375px; max-height: 375px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>NEW YORK – </b>AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of older New Yorkers already enrolled in the state’s discount prescription drug program.<br><br>The measure <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2023/S8760/amendment/)" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">(S.8760-A/A.9369-A)</a></span></span><b> </b>which unanimously passed the Senate and Assembly, would auto-enroll eligible recipients of state Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) in the federal Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). Matching the data would benefit thousands of individuals age 65 and up who are on low or fixed incomes.<br><br>Governor Hochul has until the end of the year to sign the measure, sponsored by <b>Senator Cleare</b>, of Harlem, and <b>Assemblymember John McDonald</b>, of Cohoes. Data matching, an AARP New York priority, has backing from consumer energy groups and some large utilities.<br><br>“It’s hard to imagine why the governor wouldn’t sign this common-sense bill. Doing otherwise would only leave millions of federal dollars on the table, and thousands of older New Yorkers without the help they need, and deserve, with home heating and cooling costs,” <b>Reggie Nance, AARP New York Associate State Director – Multicultural Engagement </b>said at a press conference held during Senator Cleare’s Senior Day event at the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building in Harlem. “The Legislature has done its part. Now it’s up to Governor Hochul.”<br><br>Senator Cleare noted that weather extremes are causing more financial strain year-round.<br><br>“I urge Governor Hochul to sign Senate bill 8760, which would automatically identify pharmaceutical insurance coverage program participants eligible for the Home Energy Assistance Program,” said Cleare, the Senate Aging Committee chair. “This would ensure that those who already qualify for EPIC automatically get enrolled for HEAP cooling and heating benefits.<br><br>“For the last two summers, we have endured 90-plus temperatures, and continue to urge our residents to take precautions and protect themselves during these heat waves,” she added. “However, as the cooler months approach, we also want to ensure that our older New Yorkers are able to take advantage of all heat-related benefits, as well.”<br><br>Assemblymember McDonald, who is a pharmacist, noted that the measure affects both household budgets and health.<br><br>“The intention of the data matching bill for EPIC patients to access HEAP is straightforward in that it helps individuals in need access critical resources to live a better life,” he said. “In healthcare, we look beyond prescription medicine and look at critical elements of Social Determinants of Health such as housing and energy affordability to live in a safe environment. I am hopeful that with the support of many, including AARP, this critical identification tool can be implemented and utilized as an effective way to improve the quality of life of those in need." <b> </b><br></p><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/95/23/0867304942a0831477020e83844f/utility-bill-istockphoto-com-tommaso79.jpg" alt="Energy efficiency concept and energy bill papers" width="2121" height="1414" style="height: auto; max-width: 350px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>A 2019 study by Columbia University and New York State Energy & Research Authority found that just 40% of the 1 million senior households in New York eligible for HEAP enrolled. Meanwhile, state utilities reported more than 1.3 million customers at least 60 days late on their bills in June, and more than 645, 000 facing suspension.<br><br>The legislation would require the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance which oversees HEAP and the state Department of Health, which oversees EPIC, to share information to identify eligible recipients and auto-enroll them in HEAP.<br><br>Connect with AARP New York on Twitter: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=AiSoAucd1Bu03HlfONDxkVDNdTdqTf44sQg%2BNojPSIQ%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@AARPNY</a></span></span> and Facebook: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=uO27JOcuFPnS%2BLioTIU4wvU1yh9KfutjkuQvqyp1lQ8%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b> ###</b></p><p><b><u>About AARP</u></b><br><i>AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2F&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ih1vvx4uu3E5ToU8eNUcpTzhSMB4aeJGNzsPZuG%2Bdpk%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2Fespanol&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=c5ADm8RX%2FEbXvDF65SvzQmBzz%2FjSyYnDKy0uZyvS0fA%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/espanol</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspanol and @AARPadvocates, @AliadosAdelante on social media.</i><br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/nerstrand-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Minnesota</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:mnaarp@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mnaarp@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Minnesota</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-minnesota/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-NERSTRAND-MN" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpmn" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpminnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="GettyImages NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, New, York, State, Senator, Cordell, Cleare, Urge, Governor, Sign, Legislation, Help, Older, NYers, Pay, Energy, Bills" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-new-york-state-senator-cordell-cleare-urge-governor-to-sign-legislation-to-help-older-nyers-pay-energy-bills" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-new-york-state-senator-cordell-cleare-urge-governor-to-sign-legislation-to-help-older-nyers-pay-energy-bills-ny-2024-08-28.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/90cd1a0/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2599x1671+151+0/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fbd%2F3a%2F168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb%2Fimg-1705.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta property="og:description" content="NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/90cd1a0/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2599x1671+151+0/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fbd%2F3a%2F168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb%2Fimg-1705.jpg"/> :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 08/28/24 </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/bd/3a/168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb/img-1705.jpg" alt="GettyImages-500816293.jpg" width="2902" height="1671" style="height: auto; max-width: 375px; max-height: 375px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>NEW YORK – </b>AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of older New Yorkers already enrolled in the state’s discount prescription drug program.<br><br>The measure <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2023/S8760/amendment/)" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">(S.8760-A/A.9369-A)</a></span></span><b> </b>which unanimously passed the Senate and Assembly, would auto-enroll eligible recipients of state Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) in the federal Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). Matching the data would benefit thousands of individuals age 65 and up who are on low or fixed incomes.<br><br>Governor Hochul has until the end of the year to sign the measure, sponsored by <b>Senator Cleare</b>, of Harlem, and <b>Assemblymember John McDonald</b>, of Cohoes. Data matching, an AARP New York priority, has backing from consumer energy groups and some large utilities.<br><br>“It’s hard to imagine why the governor wouldn’t sign this common-sense bill. Doing otherwise would only leave millions of federal dollars on the table, and thousands of older New Yorkers without the help they need, and deserve, with home heating and cooling costs,” <b>Reggie Nance, AARP New York Associate State Director – Multicultural Engagement </b>said at a press conference held during Senator Cleare’s Senior Day event at the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building in Harlem. “The Legislature has done its part. Now it’s up to Governor Hochul.”<br><br>Senator Cleare noted that weather extremes are causing more financial strain year-round.<br><br>“I urge Governor Hochul to sign Senate bill 8760, which would automatically identify pharmaceutical insurance coverage program participants eligible for the Home Energy Assistance Program,” said Cleare, the Senate Aging Committee chair. “This would ensure that those who already qualify for EPIC automatically get enrolled for HEAP cooling and heating benefits.<br><br>“For the last two summers, we have endured 90-plus temperatures, and continue to urge our residents to take precautions and protect themselves during these heat waves,” she added. “However, as the cooler months approach, we also want to ensure that our older New Yorkers are able to take advantage of all heat-related benefits, as well.”<br><br>Assemblymember McDonald, who is a pharmacist, noted that the measure affects both household budgets and health.<br><br>“The intention of the data matching bill for EPIC patients to access HEAP is straightforward in that it helps individuals in need access critical resources to live a better life,” he said. “In healthcare, we look beyond prescription medicine and look at critical elements of Social Determinants of Health such as housing and energy affordability to live in a safe environment. I am hopeful that with the support of many, including AARP, this critical identification tool can be implemented and utilized as an effective way to improve the quality of life of those in need." <b> </b><br></p><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/95/23/0867304942a0831477020e83844f/utility-bill-istockphoto-com-tommaso79.jpg" alt="Energy efficiency concept and energy bill papers" width="2121" height="1414" style="height: auto; max-width: 350px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>A 2019 study by Columbia University and New York State Energy & Research Authority found that just 40% of the 1 million senior households in New York eligible for HEAP enrolled. Meanwhile, state utilities reported more than 1.3 million customers at least 60 days late on their bills in June, and more than 645, 000 facing suspension.<br><br>The legislation would require the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance which oversees HEAP and the state Department of Health, which oversees EPIC, to share information to identify eligible recipients and auto-enroll them in HEAP.<br><br>Connect with AARP New York on Twitter: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=AiSoAucd1Bu03HlfONDxkVDNdTdqTf44sQg%2BNojPSIQ%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@AARPNY</a></span></span> and Facebook: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=uO27JOcuFPnS%2BLioTIU4wvU1yh9KfutjkuQvqyp1lQ8%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b> ###</b></p><p><b><u>About AARP</u></b><br><i>AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2F&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ih1vvx4uu3E5ToU8eNUcpTzhSMB4aeJGNzsPZuG%2Bdpk%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2Fespanol&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=c5ADm8RX%2FEbXvDF65SvzQmBzz%2FjSyYnDKy0uZyvS0fA%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/espanol</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspanol and @AARPadvocates, @AliadosAdelante on social media.</i><br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/nerstrand-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Minnesota</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:mnaarp@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mnaarp@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Minnesota</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-minnesota/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-NERSTRAND-MN" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpmn" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpminnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 08/28/24 </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/bd/3a/168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb/img-1705.jpg" alt="GettyImages-500816293.jpg" width="2902" height="1671" style="height: auto; max-width: 375px; max-height: 375px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>NEW YORK – </b>AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of older New Yorkers already enrolled in the state’s discount prescription drug program.<br><br>The measure <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2023/S8760/amendment/)" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">(S.8760-A/A.9369-A)</a></span></span><b> </b>which unanimously passed the Senate and Assembly, would auto-enroll eligible recipients of state Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) in the federal Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). Matching the data would benefit thousands of individuals age 65 and up who are on low or fixed incomes.<br><br>Governor Hochul has until the end of the year to sign the measure, sponsored by <b>Senator Cleare</b>, of Harlem, and <b>Assemblymember John McDonald</b>, of Cohoes. Data matching, an AARP New York priority, has backing from consumer energy groups and some large utilities.<br><br>“It’s hard to imagine why the governor wouldn’t sign this common-sense bill. Doing otherwise would only leave millions of federal dollars on the table, and thousands of older New Yorkers without the help they need, and deserve, with home heating and cooling costs,” <b>Reggie Nance, AARP New York Associate State Director – Multicultural Engagement </b>said at a press conference held during Senator Cleare’s Senior Day event at the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building in Harlem. “The Legislature has done its part. Now it’s up to Governor Hochul.”<br><br>Senator Cleare noted that weather extremes are causing more financial strain year-round.<br><br>“I urge Governor Hochul to sign Senate bill 8760, which would automatically identify pharmaceutical insurance coverage program participants eligible for the Home Energy Assistance Program,” said Cleare, the Senate Aging Committee chair. “This would ensure that those who already qualify for EPIC automatically get enrolled for HEAP cooling and heating benefits.<br><br>“For the last two summers, we have endured 90-plus temperatures, and continue to urge our residents to take precautions and protect themselves during these heat waves,” she added. “However, as the cooler months approach, we also want to ensure that our older New Yorkers are able to take advantage of all heat-related benefits, as well.”<br><br>Assemblymember McDonald, who is a pharmacist, noted that the measure affects both household budgets and health.<br><br>“The intention of the data matching bill for EPIC patients to access HEAP is straightforward in that it helps individuals in need access critical resources to live a better life,” he said. “In healthcare, we look beyond prescription medicine and look at critical elements of Social Determinants of Health such as housing and energy affordability to live in a safe environment. I am hopeful that with the support of many, including AARP, this critical identification tool can be implemented and utilized as an effective way to improve the quality of life of those in need." <b> </b><br></p><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/95/23/0867304942a0831477020e83844f/utility-bill-istockphoto-com-tommaso79.jpg" alt="Energy efficiency concept and energy bill papers" width="2121" height="1414" style="height: auto; max-width: 350px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>A 2019 study by Columbia University and New York State Energy & Research Authority found that just 40% of the 1 million senior households in New York eligible for HEAP enrolled. Meanwhile, state utilities reported more than 1.3 million customers at least 60 days late on their bills in June, and more than 645, 000 facing suspension.<br><br>The legislation would require the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance which oversees HEAP and the state Department of Health, which oversees EPIC, to share information to identify eligible recipients and auto-enroll them in HEAP.<br><br>Connect with AARP New York on Twitter: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=AiSoAucd1Bu03HlfONDxkVDNdTdqTf44sQg%2BNojPSIQ%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@AARPNY</a></span></span> and Facebook: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=uO27JOcuFPnS%2BLioTIU4wvU1yh9KfutjkuQvqyp1lQ8%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b> ###</b></p><p><b><u>About AARP</u></b><br><i>AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2F&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ih1vvx4uu3E5ToU8eNUcpTzhSMB4aeJGNzsPZuG%2Bdpk%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2Fespanol&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=c5ADm8RX%2FEbXvDF65SvzQmBzz%2FjSyYnDKy0uZyvS0fA%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/espanol</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspanol and @AARPadvocates, @AliadosAdelante on social media.</i><br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/nerstrand-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Minnesota</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:mnaarp@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mnaarp@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Minnesota</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-minnesota/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-NERSTRAND-MN" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpmn" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpminnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="GettyImages NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, New, York, State, Senator, Cordell, Cleare, Urge, Governor, Sign, Legislation, Help, Older, NYers, Pay, Energy, Bills" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-new-york-state-senator-cordell-cleare-urge-governor-to-sign-legislation-to-help-older-nyers-pay-energy-bills" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-new-york-state-senator-cordell-cleare-urge-governor-to-sign-legislation-to-help-older-nyers-pay-energy-bills-ny-2024-08-28.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/90cd1a0/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2599x1671+151+0/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fbd%2F3a%2F168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb%2Fimg-1705.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta property="og:description" content="NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/90cd1a0/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2599x1671+151+0/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fbd%2F3a%2F168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb%2Fimg-1705.jpg"/> :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 08/28/24 </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/bd/3a/168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb/img-1705.jpg" alt="GettyImages-500816293.jpg" width="2902" height="1671" style="height: auto; max-width: 375px; max-height: 375px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>NEW YORK – </b>AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of older New Yorkers already enrolled in the state’s discount prescription drug program.<br><br>The measure <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2023/S8760/amendment/)" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">(S.8760-A/A.9369-A)</a></span></span><b> </b>which unanimously passed the Senate and Assembly, would auto-enroll eligible recipients of state Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) in the federal Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). Matching the data would benefit thousands of individuals age 65 and up who are on low or fixed incomes.<br><br>Governor Hochul has until the end of the year to sign the measure, sponsored by <b>Senator Cleare</b>, of Harlem, and <b>Assemblymember John McDonald</b>, of Cohoes. Data matching, an AARP New York priority, has backing from consumer energy groups and some large utilities.<br><br>“It’s hard to imagine why the governor wouldn’t sign this common-sense bill. Doing otherwise would only leave millions of federal dollars on the table, and thousands of older New Yorkers without the help they need, and deserve, with home heating and cooling costs,” <b>Reggie Nance, AARP New York Associate State Director – Multicultural Engagement </b>said at a press conference held during Senator Cleare’s Senior Day event at the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building in Harlem. “The Legislature has done its part. Now it’s up to Governor Hochul.”<br><br>Senator Cleare noted that weather extremes are causing more financial strain year-round.<br><br>“I urge Governor Hochul to sign Senate bill 8760, which would automatically identify pharmaceutical insurance coverage program participants eligible for the Home Energy Assistance Program,” said Cleare, the Senate Aging Committee chair. “This would ensure that those who already qualify for EPIC automatically get enrolled for HEAP cooling and heating benefits.<br><br>“For the last two summers, we have endured 90-plus temperatures, and continue to urge our residents to take precautions and protect themselves during these heat waves,” she added. “However, as the cooler months approach, we also want to ensure that our older New Yorkers are able to take advantage of all heat-related benefits, as well.”<br><br>Assemblymember McDonald, who is a pharmacist, noted that the measure affects both household budgets and health.<br><br>“The intention of the data matching bill for EPIC patients to access HEAP is straightforward in that it helps individuals in need access critical resources to live a better life,” he said. “In healthcare, we look beyond prescription medicine and look at critical elements of Social Determinants of Health such as housing and energy affordability to live in a safe environment. I am hopeful that with the support of many, including AARP, this critical identification tool can be implemented and utilized as an effective way to improve the quality of life of those in need." <b> </b><br></p><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/95/23/0867304942a0831477020e83844f/utility-bill-istockphoto-com-tommaso79.jpg" alt="Energy efficiency concept and energy bill papers" width="2121" height="1414" style="height: auto; max-width: 350px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>A 2019 study by Columbia University and New York State Energy & Research Authority found that just 40% of the 1 million senior households in New York eligible for HEAP enrolled. Meanwhile, state utilities reported more than 1.3 million customers at least 60 days late on their bills in June, and more than 645, 000 facing suspension.<br><br>The legislation would require the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance which oversees HEAP and the state Department of Health, which oversees EPIC, to share information to identify eligible recipients and auto-enroll them in HEAP.<br><br>Connect with AARP New York on Twitter: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=AiSoAucd1Bu03HlfONDxkVDNdTdqTf44sQg%2BNojPSIQ%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@AARPNY</a></span></span> and Facebook: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=uO27JOcuFPnS%2BLioTIU4wvU1yh9KfutjkuQvqyp1lQ8%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b> ###</b></p><p><b><u>About AARP</u></b><br><i>AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2F&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ih1vvx4uu3E5ToU8eNUcpTzhSMB4aeJGNzsPZuG%2Bdpk%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2Fespanol&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=c5ADm8RX%2FEbXvDF65SvzQmBzz%2FjSyYnDKy0uZyvS0fA%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/espanol</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspanol and @AARPadvocates, @AliadosAdelante on social media.</i><br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/nerstrand-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Minnesota</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:mnaarp@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mnaarp@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Minnesota</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-minnesota/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-NERSTRAND-MN" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpmn" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpminnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="GettyImages NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, New, York, State, Senator, Cordell, Cleare, Urge, Governor, Sign, Legislation, Help, Older, NYers, Pay, Energy, Bills" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-new-york-state-senator-cordell-cleare-urge-governor-to-sign-legislation-to-help-older-nyers-pay-energy-bills" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-new-york-state-senator-cordell-cleare-urge-governor-to-sign-legislation-to-help-older-nyers-pay-energy-bills-ny-2024-08-28.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/90cd1a0/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2599x1671+151+0/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fbd%2F3a%2F168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb%2Fimg-1705.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta property="og:description" content="NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/90cd1a0/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2599x1671+151+0/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fbd%2F3a%2F168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb%2Fimg-1705.jpg"/> :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; 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--grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }'include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 53 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 53 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118
Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.root.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 54]Code Context<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.head.html");
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.resource.root.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 08/28/24 </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/bd/3a/168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb/img-1705.jpg" alt="GettyImages-500816293.jpg" width="2902" height="1671" style="height: auto; max-width: 375px; max-height: 375px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>NEW YORK – </b>AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of older New Yorkers already enrolled in the state’s discount prescription drug program.<br><br>The measure <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2023/S8760/amendment/)" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">(S.8760-A/A.9369-A)</a></span></span><b> </b>which unanimously passed the Senate and Assembly, would auto-enroll eligible recipients of state Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) in the federal Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). Matching the data would benefit thousands of individuals age 65 and up who are on low or fixed incomes.<br><br>Governor Hochul has until the end of the year to sign the measure, sponsored by <b>Senator Cleare</b>, of Harlem, and <b>Assemblymember John McDonald</b>, of Cohoes. Data matching, an AARP New York priority, has backing from consumer energy groups and some large utilities.<br><br>“It’s hard to imagine why the governor wouldn’t sign this common-sense bill. Doing otherwise would only leave millions of federal dollars on the table, and thousands of older New Yorkers without the help they need, and deserve, with home heating and cooling costs,” <b>Reggie Nance, AARP New York Associate State Director – Multicultural Engagement </b>said at a press conference held during Senator Cleare’s Senior Day event at the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building in Harlem. “The Legislature has done its part. Now it’s up to Governor Hochul.”<br><br>Senator Cleare noted that weather extremes are causing more financial strain year-round.<br><br>“I urge Governor Hochul to sign Senate bill 8760, which would automatically identify pharmaceutical insurance coverage program participants eligible for the Home Energy Assistance Program,” said Cleare, the Senate Aging Committee chair. “This would ensure that those who already qualify for EPIC automatically get enrolled for HEAP cooling and heating benefits.<br><br>“For the last two summers, we have endured 90-plus temperatures, and continue to urge our residents to take precautions and protect themselves during these heat waves,” she added. “However, as the cooler months approach, we also want to ensure that our older New Yorkers are able to take advantage of all heat-related benefits, as well.”<br><br>Assemblymember McDonald, who is a pharmacist, noted that the measure affects both household budgets and health.<br><br>“The intention of the data matching bill for EPIC patients to access HEAP is straightforward in that it helps individuals in need access critical resources to live a better life,” he said. “In healthcare, we look beyond prescription medicine and look at critical elements of Social Determinants of Health such as housing and energy affordability to live in a safe environment. I am hopeful that with the support of many, including AARP, this critical identification tool can be implemented and utilized as an effective way to improve the quality of life of those in need." <b> </b><br></p><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/95/23/0867304942a0831477020e83844f/utility-bill-istockphoto-com-tommaso79.jpg" alt="Energy efficiency concept and energy bill papers" width="2121" height="1414" style="height: auto; max-width: 350px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>A 2019 study by Columbia University and New York State Energy & Research Authority found that just 40% of the 1 million senior households in New York eligible for HEAP enrolled. Meanwhile, state utilities reported more than 1.3 million customers at least 60 days late on their bills in June, and more than 645, 000 facing suspension.<br><br>The legislation would require the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance which oversees HEAP and the state Department of Health, which oversees EPIC, to share information to identify eligible recipients and auto-enroll them in HEAP.<br><br>Connect with AARP New York on Twitter: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=AiSoAucd1Bu03HlfONDxkVDNdTdqTf44sQg%2BNojPSIQ%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@AARPNY</a></span></span> and Facebook: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=uO27JOcuFPnS%2BLioTIU4wvU1yh9KfutjkuQvqyp1lQ8%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b> ###</b></p><p><b><u>About AARP</u></b><br><i>AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2F&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ih1vvx4uu3E5ToU8eNUcpTzhSMB4aeJGNzsPZuG%2Bdpk%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2Fespanol&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=c5ADm8RX%2FEbXvDF65SvzQmBzz%2FjSyYnDKy0uZyvS0fA%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/espanol</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspanol and @AARPadvocates, @AliadosAdelante on social media.</i><br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/nerstrand-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Minnesota</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:mnaarp@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mnaarp@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Minnesota</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-minnesota/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-NERSTRAND-MN" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpmn" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpminnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="GettyImages NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, New, York, State, Senator, Cordell, Cleare, Urge, Governor, Sign, Legislation, Help, Older, NYers, Pay, Energy, Bills" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-new-york-state-senator-cordell-cleare-urge-governor-to-sign-legislation-to-help-older-nyers-pay-energy-bills" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-new-york-state-senator-cordell-cleare-urge-governor-to-sign-legislation-to-help-older-nyers-pay-energy-bills-ny-2024-08-28.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/90cd1a0/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2599x1671+151+0/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fbd%2F3a%2F168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb%2Fimg-1705.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta property="og:description" content="NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/90cd1a0/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2599x1671+151+0/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fbd%2F3a%2F168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb%2Fimg-1705.jpg"/> :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 08/28/24 </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/bd/3a/168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb/img-1705.jpg" alt="GettyImages-500816293.jpg" width="2902" height="1671" style="height: auto; max-width: 375px; max-height: 375px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>NEW YORK – </b>AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of older New Yorkers already enrolled in the state’s discount prescription drug program.<br><br>The measure <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2023/S8760/amendment/)" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">(S.8760-A/A.9369-A)</a></span></span><b> </b>which unanimously passed the Senate and Assembly, would auto-enroll eligible recipients of state Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) in the federal Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). Matching the data would benefit thousands of individuals age 65 and up who are on low or fixed incomes.<br><br>Governor Hochul has until the end of the year to sign the measure, sponsored by <b>Senator Cleare</b>, of Harlem, and <b>Assemblymember John McDonald</b>, of Cohoes. Data matching, an AARP New York priority, has backing from consumer energy groups and some large utilities.<br><br>“It’s hard to imagine why the governor wouldn’t sign this common-sense bill. Doing otherwise would only leave millions of federal dollars on the table, and thousands of older New Yorkers without the help they need, and deserve, with home heating and cooling costs,” <b>Reggie Nance, AARP New York Associate State Director – Multicultural Engagement </b>said at a press conference held during Senator Cleare’s Senior Day event at the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building in Harlem. “The Legislature has done its part. Now it’s up to Governor Hochul.”<br><br>Senator Cleare noted that weather extremes are causing more financial strain year-round.<br><br>“I urge Governor Hochul to sign Senate bill 8760, which would automatically identify pharmaceutical insurance coverage program participants eligible for the Home Energy Assistance Program,” said Cleare, the Senate Aging Committee chair. “This would ensure that those who already qualify for EPIC automatically get enrolled for HEAP cooling and heating benefits.<br><br>“For the last two summers, we have endured 90-plus temperatures, and continue to urge our residents to take precautions and protect themselves during these heat waves,” she added. “However, as the cooler months approach, we also want to ensure that our older New Yorkers are able to take advantage of all heat-related benefits, as well.”<br><br>Assemblymember McDonald, who is a pharmacist, noted that the measure affects both household budgets and health.<br><br>“The intention of the data matching bill for EPIC patients to access HEAP is straightforward in that it helps individuals in need access critical resources to live a better life,” he said. “In healthcare, we look beyond prescription medicine and look at critical elements of Social Determinants of Health such as housing and energy affordability to live in a safe environment. I am hopeful that with the support of many, including AARP, this critical identification tool can be implemented and utilized as an effective way to improve the quality of life of those in need." <b> </b><br></p><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/95/23/0867304942a0831477020e83844f/utility-bill-istockphoto-com-tommaso79.jpg" alt="Energy efficiency concept and energy bill papers" width="2121" height="1414" style="height: auto; max-width: 350px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>A 2019 study by Columbia University and New York State Energy & Research Authority found that just 40% of the 1 million senior households in New York eligible for HEAP enrolled. Meanwhile, state utilities reported more than 1.3 million customers at least 60 days late on their bills in June, and more than 645, 000 facing suspension.<br><br>The legislation would require the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance which oversees HEAP and the state Department of Health, which oversees EPIC, to share information to identify eligible recipients and auto-enroll them in HEAP.<br><br>Connect with AARP New York on Twitter: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=AiSoAucd1Bu03HlfONDxkVDNdTdqTf44sQg%2BNojPSIQ%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@AARPNY</a></span></span> and Facebook: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=uO27JOcuFPnS%2BLioTIU4wvU1yh9KfutjkuQvqyp1lQ8%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b> ###</b></p><p><b><u>About AARP</u></b><br><i>AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2F&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ih1vvx4uu3E5ToU8eNUcpTzhSMB4aeJGNzsPZuG%2Bdpk%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2Fespanol&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=c5ADm8RX%2FEbXvDF65SvzQmBzz%2FjSyYnDKy0uZyvS0fA%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/espanol</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspanol and @AARPadvocates, @AliadosAdelante on social media.</i><br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/nerstrand-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Minnesota</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:mnaarp@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mnaarp@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Minnesota</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-minnesota/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-NERSTRAND-MN" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpmn" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpminnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 08/28/24 </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/bd/3a/168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb/img-1705.jpg" alt="GettyImages-500816293.jpg" width="2902" height="1671" style="height: auto; max-width: 375px; max-height: 375px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>NEW YORK – </b>AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of older New Yorkers already enrolled in the state’s discount prescription drug program.<br><br>The measure <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2023/S8760/amendment/)" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">(S.8760-A/A.9369-A)</a></span></span><b> </b>which unanimously passed the Senate and Assembly, would auto-enroll eligible recipients of state Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) in the federal Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). Matching the data would benefit thousands of individuals age 65 and up who are on low or fixed incomes.<br><br>Governor Hochul has until the end of the year to sign the measure, sponsored by <b>Senator Cleare</b>, of Harlem, and <b>Assemblymember John McDonald</b>, of Cohoes. Data matching, an AARP New York priority, has backing from consumer energy groups and some large utilities.<br><br>“It’s hard to imagine why the governor wouldn’t sign this common-sense bill. Doing otherwise would only leave millions of federal dollars on the table, and thousands of older New Yorkers without the help they need, and deserve, with home heating and cooling costs,” <b>Reggie Nance, AARP New York Associate State Director – Multicultural Engagement </b>said at a press conference held during Senator Cleare’s Senior Day event at the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building in Harlem. “The Legislature has done its part. Now it’s up to Governor Hochul.”<br><br>Senator Cleare noted that weather extremes are causing more financial strain year-round.<br><br>“I urge Governor Hochul to sign Senate bill 8760, which would automatically identify pharmaceutical insurance coverage program participants eligible for the Home Energy Assistance Program,” said Cleare, the Senate Aging Committee chair. “This would ensure that those who already qualify for EPIC automatically get enrolled for HEAP cooling and heating benefits.<br><br>“For the last two summers, we have endured 90-plus temperatures, and continue to urge our residents to take precautions and protect themselves during these heat waves,” she added. “However, as the cooler months approach, we also want to ensure that our older New Yorkers are able to take advantage of all heat-related benefits, as well.”<br><br>Assemblymember McDonald, who is a pharmacist, noted that the measure affects both household budgets and health.<br><br>“The intention of the data matching bill for EPIC patients to access HEAP is straightforward in that it helps individuals in need access critical resources to live a better life,” he said. “In healthcare, we look beyond prescription medicine and look at critical elements of Social Determinants of Health such as housing and energy affordability to live in a safe environment. I am hopeful that with the support of many, including AARP, this critical identification tool can be implemented and utilized as an effective way to improve the quality of life of those in need." <b> </b><br></p><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/95/23/0867304942a0831477020e83844f/utility-bill-istockphoto-com-tommaso79.jpg" alt="Energy efficiency concept and energy bill papers" width="2121" height="1414" style="height: auto; max-width: 350px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>A 2019 study by Columbia University and New York State Energy & Research Authority found that just 40% of the 1 million senior households in New York eligible for HEAP enrolled. Meanwhile, state utilities reported more than 1.3 million customers at least 60 days late on their bills in June, and more than 645, 000 facing suspension.<br><br>The legislation would require the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance which oversees HEAP and the state Department of Health, which oversees EPIC, to share information to identify eligible recipients and auto-enroll them in HEAP.<br><br>Connect with AARP New York on Twitter: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=AiSoAucd1Bu03HlfONDxkVDNdTdqTf44sQg%2BNojPSIQ%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@AARPNY</a></span></span> and Facebook: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=uO27JOcuFPnS%2BLioTIU4wvU1yh9KfutjkuQvqyp1lQ8%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b> ###</b></p><p><b><u>About AARP</u></b><br><i>AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2F&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ih1vvx4uu3E5ToU8eNUcpTzhSMB4aeJGNzsPZuG%2Bdpk%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2Fespanol&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=c5ADm8RX%2FEbXvDF65SvzQmBzz%2FjSyYnDKy0uZyvS0fA%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/espanol</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspanol and @AARPadvocates, @AliadosAdelante on social media.</i><br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/nerstrand-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; 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}); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="GettyImages NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, New, York, State, Senator, Cordell, Cleare, Urge, Governor, Sign, Legislation, Help, Older, NYers, Pay, Energy, Bills" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-new-york-state-senator-cordell-cleare-urge-governor-to-sign-legislation-to-help-older-nyers-pay-energy-bills" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-new-york-state-senator-cordell-cleare-urge-governor-to-sign-legislation-to-help-older-nyers-pay-energy-bills-ny-2024-08-28.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/90cd1a0/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2599x1671+151+0/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fbd%2F3a%2F168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb%2Fimg-1705.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta property="og:description" content="NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/90cd1a0/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2599x1671+151+0/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fbd%2F3a%2F168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb%2Fimg-1705.jpg"/> :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 08/28/24 </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/bd/3a/168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb/img-1705.jpg" alt="GettyImages-500816293.jpg" width="2902" height="1671" style="height: auto; max-width: 375px; max-height: 375px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>NEW YORK – </b>AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of older New Yorkers already enrolled in the state’s discount prescription drug program.<br><br>The measure <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2023/S8760/amendment/)" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">(S.8760-A/A.9369-A)</a></span></span><b> </b>which unanimously passed the Senate and Assembly, would auto-enroll eligible recipients of state Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) in the federal Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). Matching the data would benefit thousands of individuals age 65 and up who are on low or fixed incomes.<br><br>Governor Hochul has until the end of the year to sign the measure, sponsored by <b>Senator Cleare</b>, of Harlem, and <b>Assemblymember John McDonald</b>, of Cohoes. Data matching, an AARP New York priority, has backing from consumer energy groups and some large utilities.<br><br>“It’s hard to imagine why the governor wouldn’t sign this common-sense bill. Doing otherwise would only leave millions of federal dollars on the table, and thousands of older New Yorkers without the help they need, and deserve, with home heating and cooling costs,” <b>Reggie Nance, AARP New York Associate State Director – Multicultural Engagement </b>said at a press conference held during Senator Cleare’s Senior Day event at the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building in Harlem. “The Legislature has done its part. Now it’s up to Governor Hochul.”<br><br>Senator Cleare noted that weather extremes are causing more financial strain year-round.<br><br>“I urge Governor Hochul to sign Senate bill 8760, which would automatically identify pharmaceutical insurance coverage program participants eligible for the Home Energy Assistance Program,” said Cleare, the Senate Aging Committee chair. “This would ensure that those who already qualify for EPIC automatically get enrolled for HEAP cooling and heating benefits.<br><br>“For the last two summers, we have endured 90-plus temperatures, and continue to urge our residents to take precautions and protect themselves during these heat waves,” she added. “However, as the cooler months approach, we also want to ensure that our older New Yorkers are able to take advantage of all heat-related benefits, as well.”<br><br>Assemblymember McDonald, who is a pharmacist, noted that the measure affects both household budgets and health.<br><br>“The intention of the data matching bill for EPIC patients to access HEAP is straightforward in that it helps individuals in need access critical resources to live a better life,” he said. “In healthcare, we look beyond prescription medicine and look at critical elements of Social Determinants of Health such as housing and energy affordability to live in a safe environment. I am hopeful that with the support of many, including AARP, this critical identification tool can be implemented and utilized as an effective way to improve the quality of life of those in need." <b> </b><br></p><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/95/23/0867304942a0831477020e83844f/utility-bill-istockphoto-com-tommaso79.jpg" alt="Energy efficiency concept and energy bill papers" width="2121" height="1414" style="height: auto; max-width: 350px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>A 2019 study by Columbia University and New York State Energy & Research Authority found that just 40% of the 1 million senior households in New York eligible for HEAP enrolled. Meanwhile, state utilities reported more than 1.3 million customers at least 60 days late on their bills in June, and more than 645, 000 facing suspension.<br><br>The legislation would require the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance which oversees HEAP and the state Department of Health, which oversees EPIC, to share information to identify eligible recipients and auto-enroll them in HEAP.<br><br>Connect with AARP New York on Twitter: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=AiSoAucd1Bu03HlfONDxkVDNdTdqTf44sQg%2BNojPSIQ%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@AARPNY</a></span></span> and Facebook: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=uO27JOcuFPnS%2BLioTIU4wvU1yh9KfutjkuQvqyp1lQ8%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b> ###</b></p><p><b><u>About AARP</u></b><br><i>AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2F&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ih1vvx4uu3E5ToU8eNUcpTzhSMB4aeJGNzsPZuG%2Bdpk%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2Fespanol&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=c5ADm8RX%2FEbXvDF65SvzQmBzz%2FjSyYnDKy0uZyvS0fA%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/espanol</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspanol and @AARPadvocates, @AliadosAdelante on social media.</i><br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/nerstrand-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Minnesota</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:mnaarp@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mnaarp@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Minnesota</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-minnesota/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-NERSTRAND-MN" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpmn" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpminnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="GettyImages NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, New, York, State, Senator, Cordell, Cleare, Urge, Governor, Sign, Legislation, Help, Older, NYers, Pay, Energy, Bills" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-new-york-state-senator-cordell-cleare-urge-governor-to-sign-legislation-to-help-older-nyers-pay-energy-bills" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-new-york-state-senator-cordell-cleare-urge-governor-to-sign-legislation-to-help-older-nyers-pay-energy-bills-ny-2024-08-28.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/90cd1a0/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2599x1671+151+0/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fbd%2F3a%2F168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb%2Fimg-1705.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta property="og:description" content="NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/90cd1a0/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2599x1671+151+0/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fbd%2F3a%2F168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb%2Fimg-1705.jpg"/> :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; 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NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of older New Yorkers already enrolled in the state’s discount prescription drug program.
The measure (S.8760-A/A.9369-A) which unanimously passed the Senate and Assembly, would auto-enroll eligible recipients of state Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) in the federal Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). Matching the data would benefit thousands of individuals age 65 and up who are on low or fixed incomes.
Governor Hochul has until the end of the year to sign the measure, sponsored by Senator Cleare, of Harlem, and Assemblymember John McDonald, of Cohoes. Data matching, an AARP New York priority, has backing from consumer energy groups and some large utilities.
“It’s hard to imagine why the governor wouldn’t sign this common-sense bill. Doing otherwise would only leave millions of federal dollars on the table, and thousands of older New Yorkers without the help they need, and deserve, with home heating and cooling costs,” Reggie Nance, AARP New York Associate State Director – Multicultural Engagement said at a press conference held during Senator Cleare’s Senior Day event at the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building in Harlem. “The Legislature has done its part. Now it’s up to Governor Hochul.”
Senator Cleare noted that weather extremes are causing more financial strain year-round.
“I urge Governor Hochul to sign Senate bill 8760, which would automatically identify pharmaceutical insurance coverage program participants eligible for the Home Energy Assistance Program,” said Cleare, the Senate Aging Committee chair. “This would ensure that those who already qualify for EPIC automatically get enrolled for HEAP cooling and heating benefits.
“For the last two summers, we have endured 90-plus temperatures, and continue to urge our residents to take precautions and protect themselves during these heat waves,” she added. “However, as the cooler months approach, we also want to ensure that our older New Yorkers are able to take advantage of all heat-related benefits, as well.”
Assemblymember McDonald, who is a pharmacist, noted that the measure affects both household budgets and health.
“The intention of the data matching bill for EPIC patients to access HEAP is straightforward in that it helps individuals in need access critical resources to live a better life,” he said. “In healthcare, we look beyond prescription medicine and look at critical elements of Social Determinants of Health such as housing and energy affordability to live in a safe environment. I am hopeful that with the support of many, including AARP, this critical identification tool can be implemented and utilized as an effective way to improve the quality of life of those in need."
A 2019 study by Columbia University and New York State Energy & Research Authority found that just 40% of the 1 million senior households in New York eligible for HEAP enrolled. Meanwhile, state utilities reported more than 1.3 million customers at least 60 days late on their bills in June, and more than 645, 000 facing suspension.
The legislation would require the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance which oversees HEAP and the state Department of Health, which oversees EPIC, to share information to identify eligible recipients and auto-enroll them in HEAP.
Connect with AARP New York on Twitter: @AARPNY and Facebook: AARP New York
###
About AARP
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org, www.aarp.org/espanol or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspanol and @AARPadvocates, @AliadosAdelante on social media.
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Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242]Code Context<?php // if (!$nowrapper) (Globals::$language == 'es') ? include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer_es.html") : include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer.html"); ?>
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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 08/28/24 </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/bd/3a/168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb/img-1705.jpg" alt="GettyImages-500816293.jpg" width="2902" height="1671" style="height: auto; max-width: 375px; max-height: 375px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>NEW YORK – </b>AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of older New Yorkers already enrolled in the state’s discount prescription drug program.<br><br>The measure <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2023/S8760/amendment/)" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">(S.8760-A/A.9369-A)</a></span></span><b> </b>which unanimously passed the Senate and Assembly, would auto-enroll eligible recipients of state Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) in the federal Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). Matching the data would benefit thousands of individuals age 65 and up who are on low or fixed incomes.<br><br>Governor Hochul has until the end of the year to sign the measure, sponsored by <b>Senator Cleare</b>, of Harlem, and <b>Assemblymember John McDonald</b>, of Cohoes. Data matching, an AARP New York priority, has backing from consumer energy groups and some large utilities.<br><br>“It’s hard to imagine why the governor wouldn’t sign this common-sense bill. Doing otherwise would only leave millions of federal dollars on the table, and thousands of older New Yorkers without the help they need, and deserve, with home heating and cooling costs,” <b>Reggie Nance, AARP New York Associate State Director – Multicultural Engagement </b>said at a press conference held during Senator Cleare’s Senior Day event at the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building in Harlem. “The Legislature has done its part. Now it’s up to Governor Hochul.”<br><br>Senator Cleare noted that weather extremes are causing more financial strain year-round.<br><br>“I urge Governor Hochul to sign Senate bill 8760, which would automatically identify pharmaceutical insurance coverage program participants eligible for the Home Energy Assistance Program,” said Cleare, the Senate Aging Committee chair. “This would ensure that those who already qualify for EPIC automatically get enrolled for HEAP cooling and heating benefits.<br><br>“For the last two summers, we have endured 90-plus temperatures, and continue to urge our residents to take precautions and protect themselves during these heat waves,” she added. “However, as the cooler months approach, we also want to ensure that our older New Yorkers are able to take advantage of all heat-related benefits, as well.”<br><br>Assemblymember McDonald, who is a pharmacist, noted that the measure affects both household budgets and health.<br><br>“The intention of the data matching bill for EPIC patients to access HEAP is straightforward in that it helps individuals in need access critical resources to live a better life,” he said. “In healthcare, we look beyond prescription medicine and look at critical elements of Social Determinants of Health such as housing and energy affordability to live in a safe environment. I am hopeful that with the support of many, including AARP, this critical identification tool can be implemented and utilized as an effective way to improve the quality of life of those in need." <b> </b><br></p><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/95/23/0867304942a0831477020e83844f/utility-bill-istockphoto-com-tommaso79.jpg" alt="Energy efficiency concept and energy bill papers" width="2121" height="1414" style="height: auto; max-width: 350px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>A 2019 study by Columbia University and New York State Energy & Research Authority found that just 40% of the 1 million senior households in New York eligible for HEAP enrolled. Meanwhile, state utilities reported more than 1.3 million customers at least 60 days late on their bills in June, and more than 645, 000 facing suspension.<br><br>The legislation would require the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance which oversees HEAP and the state Department of Health, which oversees EPIC, to share information to identify eligible recipients and auto-enroll them in HEAP.<br><br>Connect with AARP New York on Twitter: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=AiSoAucd1Bu03HlfONDxkVDNdTdqTf44sQg%2BNojPSIQ%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@AARPNY</a></span></span> and Facebook: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=uO27JOcuFPnS%2BLioTIU4wvU1yh9KfutjkuQvqyp1lQ8%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b> ###</b></p><p><b><u>About AARP</u></b><br><i>AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2F&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ih1vvx4uu3E5ToU8eNUcpTzhSMB4aeJGNzsPZuG%2Bdpk%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2Fespanol&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=c5ADm8RX%2FEbXvDF65SvzQmBzz%2FjSyYnDKy0uZyvS0fA%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/espanol</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspanol and @AARPadvocates, @AliadosAdelante on social media.</i><br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/nerstrand-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Minnesota</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:mnaarp@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mnaarp@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Minnesota</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-minnesota/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-NERSTRAND-MN" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpmn" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpminnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="GettyImages NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, New, York, State, Senator, Cordell, Cleare, Urge, Governor, Sign, Legislation, Help, Older, NYers, Pay, Energy, Bills" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-new-york-state-senator-cordell-cleare-urge-governor-to-sign-legislation-to-help-older-nyers-pay-energy-bills" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-new-york-state-senator-cordell-cleare-urge-governor-to-sign-legislation-to-help-older-nyers-pay-energy-bills-ny-2024-08-28.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/90cd1a0/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2599x1671+151+0/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fbd%2F3a%2F168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb%2Fimg-1705.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta property="og:description" content="NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/90cd1a0/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2599x1671+151+0/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fbd%2F3a%2F168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb%2Fimg-1705.jpg"/> :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 08/28/24 </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/bd/3a/168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb/img-1705.jpg" alt="GettyImages-500816293.jpg" width="2902" height="1671" style="height: auto; max-width: 375px; max-height: 375px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>NEW YORK – </b>AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of older New Yorkers already enrolled in the state’s discount prescription drug program.<br><br>The measure <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2023/S8760/amendment/)" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">(S.8760-A/A.9369-A)</a></span></span><b> </b>which unanimously passed the Senate and Assembly, would auto-enroll eligible recipients of state Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) in the federal Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). Matching the data would benefit thousands of individuals age 65 and up who are on low or fixed incomes.<br><br>Governor Hochul has until the end of the year to sign the measure, sponsored by <b>Senator Cleare</b>, of Harlem, and <b>Assemblymember John McDonald</b>, of Cohoes. Data matching, an AARP New York priority, has backing from consumer energy groups and some large utilities.<br><br>“It’s hard to imagine why the governor wouldn’t sign this common-sense bill. Doing otherwise would only leave millions of federal dollars on the table, and thousands of older New Yorkers without the help they need, and deserve, with home heating and cooling costs,” <b>Reggie Nance, AARP New York Associate State Director – Multicultural Engagement </b>said at a press conference held during Senator Cleare’s Senior Day event at the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building in Harlem. “The Legislature has done its part. Now it’s up to Governor Hochul.”<br><br>Senator Cleare noted that weather extremes are causing more financial strain year-round.<br><br>“I urge Governor Hochul to sign Senate bill 8760, which would automatically identify pharmaceutical insurance coverage program participants eligible for the Home Energy Assistance Program,” said Cleare, the Senate Aging Committee chair. “This would ensure that those who already qualify for EPIC automatically get enrolled for HEAP cooling and heating benefits.<br><br>“For the last two summers, we have endured 90-plus temperatures, and continue to urge our residents to take precautions and protect themselves during these heat waves,” she added. “However, as the cooler months approach, we also want to ensure that our older New Yorkers are able to take advantage of all heat-related benefits, as well.”<br><br>Assemblymember McDonald, who is a pharmacist, noted that the measure affects both household budgets and health.<br><br>“The intention of the data matching bill for EPIC patients to access HEAP is straightforward in that it helps individuals in need access critical resources to live a better life,” he said. “In healthcare, we look beyond prescription medicine and look at critical elements of Social Determinants of Health such as housing and energy affordability to live in a safe environment. I am hopeful that with the support of many, including AARP, this critical identification tool can be implemented and utilized as an effective way to improve the quality of life of those in need." <b> </b><br></p><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/95/23/0867304942a0831477020e83844f/utility-bill-istockphoto-com-tommaso79.jpg" alt="Energy efficiency concept and energy bill papers" width="2121" height="1414" style="height: auto; max-width: 350px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>A 2019 study by Columbia University and New York State Energy & Research Authority found that just 40% of the 1 million senior households in New York eligible for HEAP enrolled. Meanwhile, state utilities reported more than 1.3 million customers at least 60 days late on their bills in June, and more than 645, 000 facing suspension.<br><br>The legislation would require the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance which oversees HEAP and the state Department of Health, which oversees EPIC, to share information to identify eligible recipients and auto-enroll them in HEAP.<br><br>Connect with AARP New York on Twitter: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=AiSoAucd1Bu03HlfONDxkVDNdTdqTf44sQg%2BNojPSIQ%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@AARPNY</a></span></span> and Facebook: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=uO27JOcuFPnS%2BLioTIU4wvU1yh9KfutjkuQvqyp1lQ8%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b> ###</b></p><p><b><u>About AARP</u></b><br><i>AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2F&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ih1vvx4uu3E5ToU8eNUcpTzhSMB4aeJGNzsPZuG%2Bdpk%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2Fespanol&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=c5ADm8RX%2FEbXvDF65SvzQmBzz%2FjSyYnDKy0uZyvS0fA%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/espanol</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspanol and @AARPadvocates, @AliadosAdelante on social media.</i><br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/nerstrand-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Minnesota</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:mnaarp@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mnaarp@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Minnesota</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-minnesota/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-NERSTRAND-MN" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpmn" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpminnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="GettyImages NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, New, York, State, Senator, Cordell, Cleare, Urge, Governor, Sign, Legislation, Help, Older, NYers, Pay, Energy, Bills" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-new-york-state-senator-cordell-cleare-urge-governor-to-sign-legislation-to-help-older-nyers-pay-energy-bills" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-new-york-state-senator-cordell-cleare-urge-governor-to-sign-legislation-to-help-older-nyers-pay-energy-bills-ny-2024-08-28.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/90cd1a0/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2599x1671+151+0/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fbd%2F3a%2F168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb%2Fimg-1705.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta property="og:description" content="NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/90cd1a0/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2599x1671+151+0/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fbd%2F3a%2F168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb%2Fimg-1705.jpg"/> :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }' $title_for_layout = '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' $asset_version = '230831' $min = true $nowrapper = false $css = ' :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }' $highlighting = '' $location = '<a href="/nerstrand-mn/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Nerstrand, MN</a>' $no_header = false $header_title = '<a href="/nerstrand-mn/happenings/">News Feed</a>' $header_subtitle = '' $isPR = false $navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse"> <div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div> <ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true"> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/nerstrand-mn/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/nerstrand-mn/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li> <li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/nerstrand-mn/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/nerstrand-mn/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/nerstrand-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/nerstrand-mn/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more"> <span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span> <ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu"> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/nerstrand-mn/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/nerstrand-mn/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/nerstrand-mn/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/nerstrand-mn/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li> <!-- <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/nerstrand-mn/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/nerstrand-mn/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/nerstrand-mn/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li> --> </ul> </li> </ul> </nav>' $header_custom = '' $breadcrumbs = array( (int) 0 => array( 'title' => 'News Feed', 'slug' => 'happenings' ) ) $row = array( 'title' => 'Back to News Feed', 'slug' => 'happenings' ) $i = (int) 0include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118
Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242]Code Context<?php // if (!$nowrapper) (Globals::$language == 'es') ? include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer_es.html") : include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer.html"); ?>
<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 08/28/24 </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/bd/3a/168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb/img-1705.jpg" alt="GettyImages-500816293.jpg" width="2902" height="1671" style="height: auto; max-width: 375px; max-height: 375px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>NEW YORK – </b>AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of older New Yorkers already enrolled in the state’s discount prescription drug program.<br><br>The measure <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2023/S8760/amendment/)" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">(S.8760-A/A.9369-A)</a></span></span><b> </b>which unanimously passed the Senate and Assembly, would auto-enroll eligible recipients of state Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) in the federal Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). Matching the data would benefit thousands of individuals age 65 and up who are on low or fixed incomes.<br><br>Governor Hochul has until the end of the year to sign the measure, sponsored by <b>Senator Cleare</b>, of Harlem, and <b>Assemblymember John McDonald</b>, of Cohoes. Data matching, an AARP New York priority, has backing from consumer energy groups and some large utilities.<br><br>“It’s hard to imagine why the governor wouldn’t sign this common-sense bill. Doing otherwise would only leave millions of federal dollars on the table, and thousands of older New Yorkers without the help they need, and deserve, with home heating and cooling costs,” <b>Reggie Nance, AARP New York Associate State Director – Multicultural Engagement </b>said at a press conference held during Senator Cleare’s Senior Day event at the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building in Harlem. “The Legislature has done its part. Now it’s up to Governor Hochul.”<br><br>Senator Cleare noted that weather extremes are causing more financial strain year-round.<br><br>“I urge Governor Hochul to sign Senate bill 8760, which would automatically identify pharmaceutical insurance coverage program participants eligible for the Home Energy Assistance Program,” said Cleare, the Senate Aging Committee chair. “This would ensure that those who already qualify for EPIC automatically get enrolled for HEAP cooling and heating benefits.<br><br>“For the last two summers, we have endured 90-plus temperatures, and continue to urge our residents to take precautions and protect themselves during these heat waves,” she added. “However, as the cooler months approach, we also want to ensure that our older New Yorkers are able to take advantage of all heat-related benefits, as well.”<br><br>Assemblymember McDonald, who is a pharmacist, noted that the measure affects both household budgets and health.<br><br>“The intention of the data matching bill for EPIC patients to access HEAP is straightforward in that it helps individuals in need access critical resources to live a better life,” he said. “In healthcare, we look beyond prescription medicine and look at critical elements of Social Determinants of Health such as housing and energy affordability to live in a safe environment. I am hopeful that with the support of many, including AARP, this critical identification tool can be implemented and utilized as an effective way to improve the quality of life of those in need." <b> </b><br></p><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/95/23/0867304942a0831477020e83844f/utility-bill-istockphoto-com-tommaso79.jpg" alt="Energy efficiency concept and energy bill papers" width="2121" height="1414" style="height: auto; max-width: 350px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>A 2019 study by Columbia University and New York State Energy & Research Authority found that just 40% of the 1 million senior households in New York eligible for HEAP enrolled. Meanwhile, state utilities reported more than 1.3 million customers at least 60 days late on their bills in June, and more than 645, 000 facing suspension.<br><br>The legislation would require the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance which oversees HEAP and the state Department of Health, which oversees EPIC, to share information to identify eligible recipients and auto-enroll them in HEAP.<br><br>Connect with AARP New York on Twitter: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=AiSoAucd1Bu03HlfONDxkVDNdTdqTf44sQg%2BNojPSIQ%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@AARPNY</a></span></span> and Facebook: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=uO27JOcuFPnS%2BLioTIU4wvU1yh9KfutjkuQvqyp1lQ8%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b> ###</b></p><p><b><u>About AARP</u></b><br><i>AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2F&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ih1vvx4uu3E5ToU8eNUcpTzhSMB4aeJGNzsPZuG%2Bdpk%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2Fespanol&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=c5ADm8RX%2FEbXvDF65SvzQmBzz%2FjSyYnDKy0uZyvS0fA%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/espanol</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspanol and @AARPadvocates, @AliadosAdelante on social media.</i><br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/nerstrand-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Minnesota</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:mnaarp@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mnaarp@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Minnesota</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-minnesota/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-NERSTRAND-MN" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpmn" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpminnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="GettyImages NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, New, York, State, Senator, Cordell, Cleare, Urge, Governor, Sign, Legislation, Help, Older, NYers, Pay, Energy, Bills" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-new-york-state-senator-cordell-cleare-urge-governor-to-sign-legislation-to-help-older-nyers-pay-energy-bills" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-new-york-state-senator-cordell-cleare-urge-governor-to-sign-legislation-to-help-older-nyers-pay-energy-bills-ny-2024-08-28.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/90cd1a0/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2599x1671+151+0/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fbd%2F3a%2F168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb%2Fimg-1705.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta property="og:description" content="NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/90cd1a0/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2599x1671+151+0/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fbd%2F3a%2F168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb%2Fimg-1705.jpg"/> :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 08/28/24 </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/bd/3a/168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb/img-1705.jpg" alt="GettyImages-500816293.jpg" width="2902" height="1671" style="height: auto; max-width: 375px; max-height: 375px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>NEW YORK – </b>AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of older New Yorkers already enrolled in the state’s discount prescription drug program.<br><br>The measure <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2023/S8760/amendment/)" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">(S.8760-A/A.9369-A)</a></span></span><b> </b>which unanimously passed the Senate and Assembly, would auto-enroll eligible recipients of state Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) in the federal Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). Matching the data would benefit thousands of individuals age 65 and up who are on low or fixed incomes.<br><br>Governor Hochul has until the end of the year to sign the measure, sponsored by <b>Senator Cleare</b>, of Harlem, and <b>Assemblymember John McDonald</b>, of Cohoes. Data matching, an AARP New York priority, has backing from consumer energy groups and some large utilities.<br><br>“It’s hard to imagine why the governor wouldn’t sign this common-sense bill. Doing otherwise would only leave millions of federal dollars on the table, and thousands of older New Yorkers without the help they need, and deserve, with home heating and cooling costs,” <b>Reggie Nance, AARP New York Associate State Director – Multicultural Engagement </b>said at a press conference held during Senator Cleare’s Senior Day event at the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building in Harlem. “The Legislature has done its part. Now it’s up to Governor Hochul.”<br><br>Senator Cleare noted that weather extremes are causing more financial strain year-round.<br><br>“I urge Governor Hochul to sign Senate bill 8760, which would automatically identify pharmaceutical insurance coverage program participants eligible for the Home Energy Assistance Program,” said Cleare, the Senate Aging Committee chair. “This would ensure that those who already qualify for EPIC automatically get enrolled for HEAP cooling and heating benefits.<br><br>“For the last two summers, we have endured 90-plus temperatures, and continue to urge our residents to take precautions and protect themselves during these heat waves,” she added. “However, as the cooler months approach, we also want to ensure that our older New Yorkers are able to take advantage of all heat-related benefits, as well.”<br><br>Assemblymember McDonald, who is a pharmacist, noted that the measure affects both household budgets and health.<br><br>“The intention of the data matching bill for EPIC patients to access HEAP is straightforward in that it helps individuals in need access critical resources to live a better life,” he said. “In healthcare, we look beyond prescription medicine and look at critical elements of Social Determinants of Health such as housing and energy affordability to live in a safe environment. I am hopeful that with the support of many, including AARP, this critical identification tool can be implemented and utilized as an effective way to improve the quality of life of those in need." <b> </b><br></p><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/95/23/0867304942a0831477020e83844f/utility-bill-istockphoto-com-tommaso79.jpg" alt="Energy efficiency concept and energy bill papers" width="2121" height="1414" style="height: auto; max-width: 350px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>A 2019 study by Columbia University and New York State Energy & Research Authority found that just 40% of the 1 million senior households in New York eligible for HEAP enrolled. Meanwhile, state utilities reported more than 1.3 million customers at least 60 days late on their bills in June, and more than 645, 000 facing suspension.<br><br>The legislation would require the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance which oversees HEAP and the state Department of Health, which oversees EPIC, to share information to identify eligible recipients and auto-enroll them in HEAP.<br><br>Connect with AARP New York on Twitter: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=AiSoAucd1Bu03HlfONDxkVDNdTdqTf44sQg%2BNojPSIQ%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@AARPNY</a></span></span> and Facebook: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=uO27JOcuFPnS%2BLioTIU4wvU1yh9KfutjkuQvqyp1lQ8%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b> ###</b></p><p><b><u>About AARP</u></b><br><i>AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2F&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ih1vvx4uu3E5ToU8eNUcpTzhSMB4aeJGNzsPZuG%2Bdpk%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2Fespanol&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=c5ADm8RX%2FEbXvDF65SvzQmBzz%2FjSyYnDKy0uZyvS0fA%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/espanol</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspanol and @AARPadvocates, @AliadosAdelante on social media.</i><br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/nerstrand-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? 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Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 08/28/24 </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/bd/3a/168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb/img-1705.jpg" alt="GettyImages-500816293.jpg" width="2902" height="1671" style="height: auto; max-width: 375px; max-height: 375px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>NEW YORK – </b>AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of older New Yorkers already enrolled in the state’s discount prescription drug program.<br><br>The measure <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2023/S8760/amendment/)" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">(S.8760-A/A.9369-A)</a></span></span><b> </b>which unanimously passed the Senate and Assembly, would auto-enroll eligible recipients of state Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) in the federal Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). Matching the data would benefit thousands of individuals age 65 and up who are on low or fixed incomes.<br><br>Governor Hochul has until the end of the year to sign the measure, sponsored by <b>Senator Cleare</b>, of Harlem, and <b>Assemblymember John McDonald</b>, of Cohoes. Data matching, an AARP New York priority, has backing from consumer energy groups and some large utilities.<br><br>“It’s hard to imagine why the governor wouldn’t sign this common-sense bill. Doing otherwise would only leave millions of federal dollars on the table, and thousands of older New Yorkers without the help they need, and deserve, with home heating and cooling costs,” <b>Reggie Nance, AARP New York Associate State Director – Multicultural Engagement </b>said at a press conference held during Senator Cleare’s Senior Day event at the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building in Harlem. “The Legislature has done its part. Now it’s up to Governor Hochul.”<br><br>Senator Cleare noted that weather extremes are causing more financial strain year-round.<br><br>“I urge Governor Hochul to sign Senate bill 8760, which would automatically identify pharmaceutical insurance coverage program participants eligible for the Home Energy Assistance Program,” said Cleare, the Senate Aging Committee chair. “This would ensure that those who already qualify for EPIC automatically get enrolled for HEAP cooling and heating benefits.<br><br>“For the last two summers, we have endured 90-plus temperatures, and continue to urge our residents to take precautions and protect themselves during these heat waves,” she added. “However, as the cooler months approach, we also want to ensure that our older New Yorkers are able to take advantage of all heat-related benefits, as well.”<br><br>Assemblymember McDonald, who is a pharmacist, noted that the measure affects both household budgets and health.<br><br>“The intention of the data matching bill for EPIC patients to access HEAP is straightforward in that it helps individuals in need access critical resources to live a better life,” he said. “In healthcare, we look beyond prescription medicine and look at critical elements of Social Determinants of Health such as housing and energy affordability to live in a safe environment. I am hopeful that with the support of many, including AARP, this critical identification tool can be implemented and utilized as an effective way to improve the quality of life of those in need." <b> </b><br></p><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/95/23/0867304942a0831477020e83844f/utility-bill-istockphoto-com-tommaso79.jpg" alt="Energy efficiency concept and energy bill papers" width="2121" height="1414" style="height: auto; max-width: 350px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>A 2019 study by Columbia University and New York State Energy & Research Authority found that just 40% of the 1 million senior households in New York eligible for HEAP enrolled. Meanwhile, state utilities reported more than 1.3 million customers at least 60 days late on their bills in June, and more than 645, 000 facing suspension.<br><br>The legislation would require the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance which oversees HEAP and the state Department of Health, which oversees EPIC, to share information to identify eligible recipients and auto-enroll them in HEAP.<br><br>Connect with AARP New York on Twitter: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=AiSoAucd1Bu03HlfONDxkVDNdTdqTf44sQg%2BNojPSIQ%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@AARPNY</a></span></span> and Facebook: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=uO27JOcuFPnS%2BLioTIU4wvU1yh9KfutjkuQvqyp1lQ8%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b> ###</b></p><p><b><u>About AARP</u></b><br><i>AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2F&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ih1vvx4uu3E5ToU8eNUcpTzhSMB4aeJGNzsPZuG%2Bdpk%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2Fespanol&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=c5ADm8RX%2FEbXvDF65SvzQmBzz%2FjSyYnDKy0uZyvS0fA%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/espanol</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspanol and @AARPadvocates, @AliadosAdelante on social media.</i><br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/nerstrand-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Minnesota</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:mnaarp@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mnaarp@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Minnesota</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-minnesota/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-NERSTRAND-MN" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpmn" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpminnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); 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--primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 08/28/24 </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/bd/3a/168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb/img-1705.jpg" alt="GettyImages-500816293.jpg" width="2902" height="1671" style="height: auto; max-width: 375px; max-height: 375px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>NEW YORK – </b>AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of older New Yorkers already enrolled in the state’s discount prescription drug program.<br><br>The measure <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2023/S8760/amendment/)" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">(S.8760-A/A.9369-A)</a></span></span><b> </b>which unanimously passed the Senate and Assembly, would auto-enroll eligible recipients of state Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) in the federal Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). Matching the data would benefit thousands of individuals age 65 and up who are on low or fixed incomes.<br><br>Governor Hochul has until the end of the year to sign the measure, sponsored by <b>Senator Cleare</b>, of Harlem, and <b>Assemblymember John McDonald</b>, of Cohoes. Data matching, an AARP New York priority, has backing from consumer energy groups and some large utilities.<br><br>“It’s hard to imagine why the governor wouldn’t sign this common-sense bill. Doing otherwise would only leave millions of federal dollars on the table, and thousands of older New Yorkers without the help they need, and deserve, with home heating and cooling costs,” <b>Reggie Nance, AARP New York Associate State Director – Multicultural Engagement </b>said at a press conference held during Senator Cleare’s Senior Day event at the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building in Harlem. “The Legislature has done its part. Now it’s up to Governor Hochul.”<br><br>Senator Cleare noted that weather extremes are causing more financial strain year-round.<br><br>“I urge Governor Hochul to sign Senate bill 8760, which would automatically identify pharmaceutical insurance coverage program participants eligible for the Home Energy Assistance Program,” said Cleare, the Senate Aging Committee chair. “This would ensure that those who already qualify for EPIC automatically get enrolled for HEAP cooling and heating benefits.<br><br>“For the last two summers, we have endured 90-plus temperatures, and continue to urge our residents to take precautions and protect themselves during these heat waves,” she added. “However, as the cooler months approach, we also want to ensure that our older New Yorkers are able to take advantage of all heat-related benefits, as well.”<br><br>Assemblymember McDonald, who is a pharmacist, noted that the measure affects both household budgets and health.<br><br>“The intention of the data matching bill for EPIC patients to access HEAP is straightforward in that it helps individuals in need access critical resources to live a better life,” he said. “In healthcare, we look beyond prescription medicine and look at critical elements of Social Determinants of Health such as housing and energy affordability to live in a safe environment. I am hopeful that with the support of many, including AARP, this critical identification tool can be implemented and utilized as an effective way to improve the quality of life of those in need." <b> </b><br></p><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/95/23/0867304942a0831477020e83844f/utility-bill-istockphoto-com-tommaso79.jpg" alt="Energy efficiency concept and energy bill papers" width="2121" height="1414" style="height: auto; max-width: 350px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>A 2019 study by Columbia University and New York State Energy & Research Authority found that just 40% of the 1 million senior households in New York eligible for HEAP enrolled. Meanwhile, state utilities reported more than 1.3 million customers at least 60 days late on their bills in June, and more than 645, 000 facing suspension.<br><br>The legislation would require the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance which oversees HEAP and the state Department of Health, which oversees EPIC, to share information to identify eligible recipients and auto-enroll them in HEAP.<br><br>Connect with AARP New York on Twitter: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=AiSoAucd1Bu03HlfONDxkVDNdTdqTf44sQg%2BNojPSIQ%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@AARPNY</a></span></span> and Facebook: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=uO27JOcuFPnS%2BLioTIU4wvU1yh9KfutjkuQvqyp1lQ8%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b> ###</b></p><p><b><u>About AARP</u></b><br><i>AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2F&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ih1vvx4uu3E5ToU8eNUcpTzhSMB4aeJGNzsPZuG%2Bdpk%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2Fespanol&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=c5ADm8RX%2FEbXvDF65SvzQmBzz%2FjSyYnDKy0uZyvS0fA%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/espanol</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspanol and @AARPadvocates, @AliadosAdelante on social media.</i><br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/nerstrand-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display == 'none' ? 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'' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display == 'none' ? 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Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 08/28/24 </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/bd/3a/168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb/img-1705.jpg" alt="GettyImages-500816293.jpg" width="2902" height="1671" style="height: auto; max-width: 375px; max-height: 375px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>NEW YORK – </b>AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of older New Yorkers already enrolled in the state’s discount prescription drug program.<br><br>The measure <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2023/S8760/amendment/)" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">(S.8760-A/A.9369-A)</a></span></span><b> </b>which unanimously passed the Senate and Assembly, would auto-enroll eligible recipients of state Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) in the federal Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). Matching the data would benefit thousands of individuals age 65 and up who are on low or fixed incomes.<br><br>Governor Hochul has until the end of the year to sign the measure, sponsored by <b>Senator Cleare</b>, of Harlem, and <b>Assemblymember John McDonald</b>, of Cohoes. Data matching, an AARP New York priority, has backing from consumer energy groups and some large utilities.<br><br>“It’s hard to imagine why the governor wouldn’t sign this common-sense bill. Doing otherwise would only leave millions of federal dollars on the table, and thousands of older New Yorkers without the help they need, and deserve, with home heating and cooling costs,” <b>Reggie Nance, AARP New York Associate State Director – Multicultural Engagement </b>said at a press conference held during Senator Cleare’s Senior Day event at the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building in Harlem. “The Legislature has done its part. Now it’s up to Governor Hochul.”<br><br>Senator Cleare noted that weather extremes are causing more financial strain year-round.<br><br>“I urge Governor Hochul to sign Senate bill 8760, which would automatically identify pharmaceutical insurance coverage program participants eligible for the Home Energy Assistance Program,” said Cleare, the Senate Aging Committee chair. “This would ensure that those who already qualify for EPIC automatically get enrolled for HEAP cooling and heating benefits.<br><br>“For the last two summers, we have endured 90-plus temperatures, and continue to urge our residents to take precautions and protect themselves during these heat waves,” she added. “However, as the cooler months approach, we also want to ensure that our older New Yorkers are able to take advantage of all heat-related benefits, as well.”<br><br>Assemblymember McDonald, who is a pharmacist, noted that the measure affects both household budgets and health.<br><br>“The intention of the data matching bill for EPIC patients to access HEAP is straightforward in that it helps individuals in need access critical resources to live a better life,” he said. “In healthcare, we look beyond prescription medicine and look at critical elements of Social Determinants of Health such as housing and energy affordability to live in a safe environment. I am hopeful that with the support of many, including AARP, this critical identification tool can be implemented and utilized as an effective way to improve the quality of life of those in need." <b> </b><br></p><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/95/23/0867304942a0831477020e83844f/utility-bill-istockphoto-com-tommaso79.jpg" alt="Energy efficiency concept and energy bill papers" width="2121" height="1414" style="height: auto; max-width: 350px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>A 2019 study by Columbia University and New York State Energy & Research Authority found that just 40% of the 1 million senior households in New York eligible for HEAP enrolled. Meanwhile, state utilities reported more than 1.3 million customers at least 60 days late on their bills in June, and more than 645, 000 facing suspension.<br><br>The legislation would require the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance which oversees HEAP and the state Department of Health, which oversees EPIC, to share information to identify eligible recipients and auto-enroll them in HEAP.<br><br>Connect with AARP New York on Twitter: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=AiSoAucd1Bu03HlfONDxkVDNdTdqTf44sQg%2BNojPSIQ%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@AARPNY</a></span></span> and Facebook: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=uO27JOcuFPnS%2BLioTIU4wvU1yh9KfutjkuQvqyp1lQ8%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b> ###</b></p><p><b><u>About AARP</u></b><br><i>AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2F&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ih1vvx4uu3E5ToU8eNUcpTzhSMB4aeJGNzsPZuG%2Bdpk%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2Fespanol&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=c5ADm8RX%2FEbXvDF65SvzQmBzz%2FjSyYnDKy0uZyvS0fA%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/espanol</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspanol and @AARPadvocates, @AliadosAdelante on social media.</i><br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/nerstrand-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Minnesota</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:mnaarp@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mnaarp@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Minnesota</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-minnesota/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-NERSTRAND-MN" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpmn" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpminnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="GettyImages NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, New, York, State, Senator, Cordell, Cleare, Urge, Governor, Sign, Legislation, Help, Older, NYers, Pay, Energy, Bills" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-new-york-state-senator-cordell-cleare-urge-governor-to-sign-legislation-to-help-older-nyers-pay-energy-bills" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-new-york-state-senator-cordell-cleare-urge-governor-to-sign-legislation-to-help-older-nyers-pay-energy-bills-ny-2024-08-28.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/90cd1a0/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2599x1671+151+0/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fbd%2F3a%2F168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb%2Fimg-1705.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta property="og:description" content="NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/90cd1a0/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2599x1671+151+0/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fbd%2F3a%2F168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb%2Fimg-1705.jpg"/> :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 08/28/24 </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/bd/3a/168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb/img-1705.jpg" alt="GettyImages-500816293.jpg" width="2902" height="1671" style="height: auto; max-width: 375px; max-height: 375px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>NEW YORK – </b>AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of older New Yorkers already enrolled in the state’s discount prescription drug program.<br><br>The measure <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2023/S8760/amendment/)" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">(S.8760-A/A.9369-A)</a></span></span><b> </b>which unanimously passed the Senate and Assembly, would auto-enroll eligible recipients of state Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) in the federal Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). Matching the data would benefit thousands of individuals age 65 and up who are on low or fixed incomes.<br><br>Governor Hochul has until the end of the year to sign the measure, sponsored by <b>Senator Cleare</b>, of Harlem, and <b>Assemblymember John McDonald</b>, of Cohoes. Data matching, an AARP New York priority, has backing from consumer energy groups and some large utilities.<br><br>“It’s hard to imagine why the governor wouldn’t sign this common-sense bill. Doing otherwise would only leave millions of federal dollars on the table, and thousands of older New Yorkers without the help they need, and deserve, with home heating and cooling costs,” <b>Reggie Nance, AARP New York Associate State Director – Multicultural Engagement </b>said at a press conference held during Senator Cleare’s Senior Day event at the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building in Harlem. “The Legislature has done its part. Now it’s up to Governor Hochul.”<br><br>Senator Cleare noted that weather extremes are causing more financial strain year-round.<br><br>“I urge Governor Hochul to sign Senate bill 8760, which would automatically identify pharmaceutical insurance coverage program participants eligible for the Home Energy Assistance Program,” said Cleare, the Senate Aging Committee chair. “This would ensure that those who already qualify for EPIC automatically get enrolled for HEAP cooling and heating benefits.<br><br>“For the last two summers, we have endured 90-plus temperatures, and continue to urge our residents to take precautions and protect themselves during these heat waves,” she added. “However, as the cooler months approach, we also want to ensure that our older New Yorkers are able to take advantage of all heat-related benefits, as well.”<br><br>Assemblymember McDonald, who is a pharmacist, noted that the measure affects both household budgets and health.<br><br>“The intention of the data matching bill for EPIC patients to access HEAP is straightforward in that it helps individuals in need access critical resources to live a better life,” he said. “In healthcare, we look beyond prescription medicine and look at critical elements of Social Determinants of Health such as housing and energy affordability to live in a safe environment. I am hopeful that with the support of many, including AARP, this critical identification tool can be implemented and utilized as an effective way to improve the quality of life of those in need." <b> </b><br></p><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/95/23/0867304942a0831477020e83844f/utility-bill-istockphoto-com-tommaso79.jpg" alt="Energy efficiency concept and energy bill papers" width="2121" height="1414" style="height: auto; max-width: 350px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>A 2019 study by Columbia University and New York State Energy & Research Authority found that just 40% of the 1 million senior households in New York eligible for HEAP enrolled. Meanwhile, state utilities reported more than 1.3 million customers at least 60 days late on their bills in June, and more than 645, 000 facing suspension.<br><br>The legislation would require the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance which oversees HEAP and the state Department of Health, which oversees EPIC, to share information to identify eligible recipients and auto-enroll them in HEAP.<br><br>Connect with AARP New York on Twitter: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=AiSoAucd1Bu03HlfONDxkVDNdTdqTf44sQg%2BNojPSIQ%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@AARPNY</a></span></span> and Facebook: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=uO27JOcuFPnS%2BLioTIU4wvU1yh9KfutjkuQvqyp1lQ8%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b> ###</b></p><p><b><u>About AARP</u></b><br><i>AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2F&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ih1vvx4uu3E5ToU8eNUcpTzhSMB4aeJGNzsPZuG%2Bdpk%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2Fespanol&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=c5ADm8RX%2FEbXvDF65SvzQmBzz%2FjSyYnDKy0uZyvS0fA%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/espanol</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspanol and @AARPadvocates, @AliadosAdelante on social media.</i><br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/nerstrand-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 08/28/24 </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/bd/3a/168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb/img-1705.jpg" alt="GettyImages-500816293.jpg" width="2902" height="1671" style="height: auto; max-width: 375px; max-height: 375px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>NEW YORK – </b>AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of older New Yorkers already enrolled in the state’s discount prescription drug program.<br><br>The measure <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2023/S8760/amendment/)" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">(S.8760-A/A.9369-A)</a></span></span><b> </b>which unanimously passed the Senate and Assembly, would auto-enroll eligible recipients of state Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) in the federal Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). Matching the data would benefit thousands of individuals age 65 and up who are on low or fixed incomes.<br><br>Governor Hochul has until the end of the year to sign the measure, sponsored by <b>Senator Cleare</b>, of Harlem, and <b>Assemblymember John McDonald</b>, of Cohoes. Data matching, an AARP New York priority, has backing from consumer energy groups and some large utilities.<br><br>“It’s hard to imagine why the governor wouldn’t sign this common-sense bill. Doing otherwise would only leave millions of federal dollars on the table, and thousands of older New Yorkers without the help they need, and deserve, with home heating and cooling costs,” <b>Reggie Nance, AARP New York Associate State Director – Multicultural Engagement </b>said at a press conference held during Senator Cleare’s Senior Day event at the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building in Harlem. “The Legislature has done its part. Now it’s up to Governor Hochul.”<br><br>Senator Cleare noted that weather extremes are causing more financial strain year-round.<br><br>“I urge Governor Hochul to sign Senate bill 8760, which would automatically identify pharmaceutical insurance coverage program participants eligible for the Home Energy Assistance Program,” said Cleare, the Senate Aging Committee chair. “This would ensure that those who already qualify for EPIC automatically get enrolled for HEAP cooling and heating benefits.<br><br>“For the last two summers, we have endured 90-plus temperatures, and continue to urge our residents to take precautions and protect themselves during these heat waves,” she added. “However, as the cooler months approach, we also want to ensure that our older New Yorkers are able to take advantage of all heat-related benefits, as well.”<br><br>Assemblymember McDonald, who is a pharmacist, noted that the measure affects both household budgets and health.<br><br>“The intention of the data matching bill for EPIC patients to access HEAP is straightforward in that it helps individuals in need access critical resources to live a better life,” he said. “In healthcare, we look beyond prescription medicine and look at critical elements of Social Determinants of Health such as housing and energy affordability to live in a safe environment. I am hopeful that with the support of many, including AARP, this critical identification tool can be implemented and utilized as an effective way to improve the quality of life of those in need." <b> </b><br></p><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/95/23/0867304942a0831477020e83844f/utility-bill-istockphoto-com-tommaso79.jpg" alt="Energy efficiency concept and energy bill papers" width="2121" height="1414" style="height: auto; max-width: 350px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>A 2019 study by Columbia University and New York State Energy & Research Authority found that just 40% of the 1 million senior households in New York eligible for HEAP enrolled. Meanwhile, state utilities reported more than 1.3 million customers at least 60 days late on their bills in June, and more than 645, 000 facing suspension.<br><br>The legislation would require the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance which oversees HEAP and the state Department of Health, which oversees EPIC, to share information to identify eligible recipients and auto-enroll them in HEAP.<br><br>Connect with AARP New York on Twitter: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=AiSoAucd1Bu03HlfONDxkVDNdTdqTf44sQg%2BNojPSIQ%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@AARPNY</a></span></span> and Facebook: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=uO27JOcuFPnS%2BLioTIU4wvU1yh9KfutjkuQvqyp1lQ8%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b> ###</b></p><p><b><u>About AARP</u></b><br><i>AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2F&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ih1vvx4uu3E5ToU8eNUcpTzhSMB4aeJGNzsPZuG%2Bdpk%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2Fespanol&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=c5ADm8RX%2FEbXvDF65SvzQmBzz%2FjSyYnDKy0uZyvS0fA%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/espanol</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspanol and @AARPadvocates, @AliadosAdelante on social media.</i><br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/nerstrand-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Minnesota</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:mnaarp@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mnaarp@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Minnesota</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-minnesota/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-NERSTRAND-MN" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpmn" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpminnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="GettyImages NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, New, York, State, Senator, Cordell, Cleare, Urge, Governor, Sign, Legislation, Help, Older, NYers, Pay, Energy, Bills" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-new-york-state-senator-cordell-cleare-urge-governor-to-sign-legislation-to-help-older-nyers-pay-energy-bills" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-new-york-state-senator-cordell-cleare-urge-governor-to-sign-legislation-to-help-older-nyers-pay-energy-bills-ny-2024-08-28.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/90cd1a0/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2599x1671+151+0/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fbd%2F3a%2F168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb%2Fimg-1705.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta property="og:description" content="NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/90cd1a0/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2599x1671+151+0/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fbd%2F3a%2F168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb%2Fimg-1705.jpg"/> :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 08/28/24 </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/bd/3a/168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb/img-1705.jpg" alt="GettyImages-500816293.jpg" width="2902" height="1671" style="height: auto; max-width: 375px; max-height: 375px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>NEW YORK – </b>AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of older New Yorkers already enrolled in the state’s discount prescription drug program.<br><br>The measure <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2023/S8760/amendment/)" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">(S.8760-A/A.9369-A)</a></span></span><b> </b>which unanimously passed the Senate and Assembly, would auto-enroll eligible recipients of state Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) in the federal Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). Matching the data would benefit thousands of individuals age 65 and up who are on low or fixed incomes.<br><br>Governor Hochul has until the end of the year to sign the measure, sponsored by <b>Senator Cleare</b>, of Harlem, and <b>Assemblymember John McDonald</b>, of Cohoes. Data matching, an AARP New York priority, has backing from consumer energy groups and some large utilities.<br><br>“It’s hard to imagine why the governor wouldn’t sign this common-sense bill. Doing otherwise would only leave millions of federal dollars on the table, and thousands of older New Yorkers without the help they need, and deserve, with home heating and cooling costs,” <b>Reggie Nance, AARP New York Associate State Director – Multicultural Engagement </b>said at a press conference held during Senator Cleare’s Senior Day event at the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building in Harlem. “The Legislature has done its part. Now it’s up to Governor Hochul.”<br><br>Senator Cleare noted that weather extremes are causing more financial strain year-round.<br><br>“I urge Governor Hochul to sign Senate bill 8760, which would automatically identify pharmaceutical insurance coverage program participants eligible for the Home Energy Assistance Program,” said Cleare, the Senate Aging Committee chair. “This would ensure that those who already qualify for EPIC automatically get enrolled for HEAP cooling and heating benefits.<br><br>“For the last two summers, we have endured 90-plus temperatures, and continue to urge our residents to take precautions and protect themselves during these heat waves,” she added. “However, as the cooler months approach, we also want to ensure that our older New Yorkers are able to take advantage of all heat-related benefits, as well.”<br><br>Assemblymember McDonald, who is a pharmacist, noted that the measure affects both household budgets and health.<br><br>“The intention of the data matching bill for EPIC patients to access HEAP is straightforward in that it helps individuals in need access critical resources to live a better life,” he said. “In healthcare, we look beyond prescription medicine and look at critical elements of Social Determinants of Health such as housing and energy affordability to live in a safe environment. I am hopeful that with the support of many, including AARP, this critical identification tool can be implemented and utilized as an effective way to improve the quality of life of those in need." <b> </b><br></p><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/95/23/0867304942a0831477020e83844f/utility-bill-istockphoto-com-tommaso79.jpg" alt="Energy efficiency concept and energy bill papers" width="2121" height="1414" style="height: auto; max-width: 350px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>A 2019 study by Columbia University and New York State Energy & Research Authority found that just 40% of the 1 million senior households in New York eligible for HEAP enrolled. Meanwhile, state utilities reported more than 1.3 million customers at least 60 days late on their bills in June, and more than 645, 000 facing suspension.<br><br>The legislation would require the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance which oversees HEAP and the state Department of Health, which oversees EPIC, to share information to identify eligible recipients and auto-enroll them in HEAP.<br><br>Connect with AARP New York on Twitter: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=AiSoAucd1Bu03HlfONDxkVDNdTdqTf44sQg%2BNojPSIQ%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@AARPNY</a></span></span> and Facebook: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=uO27JOcuFPnS%2BLioTIU4wvU1yh9KfutjkuQvqyp1lQ8%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b> ###</b></p><p><b><u>About AARP</u></b><br><i>AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2F&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ih1vvx4uu3E5ToU8eNUcpTzhSMB4aeJGNzsPZuG%2Bdpk%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2Fespanol&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=c5ADm8RX%2FEbXvDF65SvzQmBzz%2FjSyYnDKy0uZyvS0fA%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/espanol</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspanol and @AARPadvocates, @AliadosAdelante on social media.</i><br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/nerstrand-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Minnesota</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:mnaarp@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mnaarp@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Minnesota</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-minnesota/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-NERSTRAND-MN" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpmn" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpminnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 08/28/24 </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/bd/3a/168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb/img-1705.jpg" alt="GettyImages-500816293.jpg" width="2902" height="1671" style="height: auto; max-width: 375px; max-height: 375px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>NEW YORK – </b>AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of older New Yorkers already enrolled in the state’s discount prescription drug program.<br><br>The measure <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2023/S8760/amendment/)" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">(S.8760-A/A.9369-A)</a></span></span><b> </b>which unanimously passed the Senate and Assembly, would auto-enroll eligible recipients of state Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) in the federal Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). Matching the data would benefit thousands of individuals age 65 and up who are on low or fixed incomes.<br><br>Governor Hochul has until the end of the year to sign the measure, sponsored by <b>Senator Cleare</b>, of Harlem, and <b>Assemblymember John McDonald</b>, of Cohoes. Data matching, an AARP New York priority, has backing from consumer energy groups and some large utilities.<br><br>“It’s hard to imagine why the governor wouldn’t sign this common-sense bill. Doing otherwise would only leave millions of federal dollars on the table, and thousands of older New Yorkers without the help they need, and deserve, with home heating and cooling costs,” <b>Reggie Nance, AARP New York Associate State Director – Multicultural Engagement </b>said at a press conference held during Senator Cleare’s Senior Day event at the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building in Harlem. “The Legislature has done its part. Now it’s up to Governor Hochul.”<br><br>Senator Cleare noted that weather extremes are causing more financial strain year-round.<br><br>“I urge Governor Hochul to sign Senate bill 8760, which would automatically identify pharmaceutical insurance coverage program participants eligible for the Home Energy Assistance Program,” said Cleare, the Senate Aging Committee chair. “This would ensure that those who already qualify for EPIC automatically get enrolled for HEAP cooling and heating benefits.<br><br>“For the last two summers, we have endured 90-plus temperatures, and continue to urge our residents to take precautions and protect themselves during these heat waves,” she added. “However, as the cooler months approach, we also want to ensure that our older New Yorkers are able to take advantage of all heat-related benefits, as well.”<br><br>Assemblymember McDonald, who is a pharmacist, noted that the measure affects both household budgets and health.<br><br>“The intention of the data matching bill for EPIC patients to access HEAP is straightforward in that it helps individuals in need access critical resources to live a better life,” he said. “In healthcare, we look beyond prescription medicine and look at critical elements of Social Determinants of Health such as housing and energy affordability to live in a safe environment. I am hopeful that with the support of many, including AARP, this critical identification tool can be implemented and utilized as an effective way to improve the quality of life of those in need." <b> </b><br></p><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/95/23/0867304942a0831477020e83844f/utility-bill-istockphoto-com-tommaso79.jpg" alt="Energy efficiency concept and energy bill papers" width="2121" height="1414" style="height: auto; max-width: 350px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>A 2019 study by Columbia University and New York State Energy & Research Authority found that just 40% of the 1 million senior households in New York eligible for HEAP enrolled. Meanwhile, state utilities reported more than 1.3 million customers at least 60 days late on their bills in June, and more than 645, 000 facing suspension.<br><br>The legislation would require the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance which oversees HEAP and the state Department of Health, which oversees EPIC, to share information to identify eligible recipients and auto-enroll them in HEAP.<br><br>Connect with AARP New York on Twitter: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=AiSoAucd1Bu03HlfONDxkVDNdTdqTf44sQg%2BNojPSIQ%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@AARPNY</a></span></span> and Facebook: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=uO27JOcuFPnS%2BLioTIU4wvU1yh9KfutjkuQvqyp1lQ8%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b> ###</b></p><p><b><u>About AARP</u></b><br><i>AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2F&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ih1vvx4uu3E5ToU8eNUcpTzhSMB4aeJGNzsPZuG%2Bdpk%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2Fespanol&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=c5ADm8RX%2FEbXvDF65SvzQmBzz%2FjSyYnDKy0uZyvS0fA%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/espanol</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspanol and @AARPadvocates, @AliadosAdelante on social media.</i><br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/nerstrand-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . 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'' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Minnesota</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:mnaarp@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mnaarp@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Minnesota</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-minnesota/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-NERSTRAND-MN" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpmn" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpminnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="GettyImages NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, New, York, State, Senator, Cordell, Cleare, Urge, Governor, Sign, Legislation, Help, Older, NYers, Pay, Energy, Bills" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-new-york-state-senator-cordell-cleare-urge-governor-to-sign-legislation-to-help-older-nyers-pay-energy-bills" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-new-york-state-senator-cordell-cleare-urge-governor-to-sign-legislation-to-help-older-nyers-pay-energy-bills-ny-2024-08-28.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/90cd1a0/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2599x1671+151+0/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fbd%2F3a%2F168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb%2Fimg-1705.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta property="og:description" content="NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/90cd1a0/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2599x1671+151+0/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fbd%2F3a%2F168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb%2Fimg-1705.jpg"/> :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 08/28/24 </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/bd/3a/168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb/img-1705.jpg" alt="GettyImages-500816293.jpg" width="2902" height="1671" style="height: auto; max-width: 375px; max-height: 375px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>NEW YORK – </b>AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of older New Yorkers already enrolled in the state’s discount prescription drug program.<br><br>The measure <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2023/S8760/amendment/)" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">(S.8760-A/A.9369-A)</a></span></span><b> </b>which unanimously passed the Senate and Assembly, would auto-enroll eligible recipients of state Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) in the federal Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). Matching the data would benefit thousands of individuals age 65 and up who are on low or fixed incomes.<br><br>Governor Hochul has until the end of the year to sign the measure, sponsored by <b>Senator Cleare</b>, of Harlem, and <b>Assemblymember John McDonald</b>, of Cohoes. Data matching, an AARP New York priority, has backing from consumer energy groups and some large utilities.<br><br>“It’s hard to imagine why the governor wouldn’t sign this common-sense bill. Doing otherwise would only leave millions of federal dollars on the table, and thousands of older New Yorkers without the help they need, and deserve, with home heating and cooling costs,” <b>Reggie Nance, AARP New York Associate State Director – Multicultural Engagement </b>said at a press conference held during Senator Cleare’s Senior Day event at the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building in Harlem. “The Legislature has done its part. Now it’s up to Governor Hochul.”<br><br>Senator Cleare noted that weather extremes are causing more financial strain year-round.<br><br>“I urge Governor Hochul to sign Senate bill 8760, which would automatically identify pharmaceutical insurance coverage program participants eligible for the Home Energy Assistance Program,” said Cleare, the Senate Aging Committee chair. “This would ensure that those who already qualify for EPIC automatically get enrolled for HEAP cooling and heating benefits.<br><br>“For the last two summers, we have endured 90-plus temperatures, and continue to urge our residents to take precautions and protect themselves during these heat waves,” she added. “However, as the cooler months approach, we also want to ensure that our older New Yorkers are able to take advantage of all heat-related benefits, as well.”<br><br>Assemblymember McDonald, who is a pharmacist, noted that the measure affects both household budgets and health.<br><br>“The intention of the data matching bill for EPIC patients to access HEAP is straightforward in that it helps individuals in need access critical resources to live a better life,” he said. “In healthcare, we look beyond prescription medicine and look at critical elements of Social Determinants of Health such as housing and energy affordability to live in a safe environment. I am hopeful that with the support of many, including AARP, this critical identification tool can be implemented and utilized as an effective way to improve the quality of life of those in need." <b> </b><br></p><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="center"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/95/23/0867304942a0831477020e83844f/utility-bill-istockphoto-com-tommaso79.jpg" alt="Energy efficiency concept and energy bill papers" width="2121" height="1414" style="height: auto; max-width: 350px;"/> <div class="Figure-credit">GettyImages</div> </figure> </div> </div><p>A 2019 study by Columbia University and New York State Energy & Research Authority found that just 40% of the 1 million senior households in New York eligible for HEAP enrolled. Meanwhile, state utilities reported more than 1.3 million customers at least 60 days late on their bills in June, and more than 645, 000 facing suspension.<br><br>The legislation would require the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance which oversees HEAP and the state Department of Health, which oversees EPIC, to share information to identify eligible recipients and auto-enroll them in HEAP.<br><br>Connect with AARP New York on Twitter: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=AiSoAucd1Bu03HlfONDxkVDNdTdqTf44sQg%2BNojPSIQ%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@AARPNY</a></span></span> and Facebook: <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FAARPNY&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=uO27JOcuFPnS%2BLioTIU4wvU1yh9KfutjkuQvqyp1lQ8%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br></p><p class="cms-textAlign-center"><b> ###</b></p><p><b><u>About AARP</u></b><br><i>AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2F&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ih1vvx4uu3E5ToU8eNUcpTzhSMB4aeJGNzsPZuG%2Bdpk%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarp.org%2Fespanol&data=05%7C01%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C254316a6a36e4a2850ca08dac6771571%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638040512002920002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=c5ADm8RX%2FEbXvDF65SvzQmBzz%2FjSyYnDKy0uZyvS0fA%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/espanol</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspanol and @AARPadvocates, @AliadosAdelante on social media.</i><br></p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/nerstrand-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fd9291-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Warning</b> (2)</a>: include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app//Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [<b>APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code</b>, line <b>1</b>]<div id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr66e7c04fda0ad-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$module = array( '_id' => '66158db0e9dff2b1fd9cafcd', 'module_id' => '1098', 'name' => 'RHS - Events Experience', 'type' => 'php', 'data' => '<?php include(APP . "/Resource/experience.master.resource.root.html"); ?> <style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style>', 'css' => '.recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px} .recommenadationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:rgb(221,18,0); font-size:12px} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px} ', 'script' => '', 'cache_time' => '', 'localize' => '0' ) $obj = false</pre><pre class="stack-trace">include - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 eval - APP/Lib/Modules.php(13) : eval()'d code, line 1 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 13 Modules::load() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 29 Localize::getModule() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 294 Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 219 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167</pre></div></pre><style type="text/css"> .recommenationSection {font-family: Lato, sans-serif} .recommendationSection h3 {font-size:30px!important; text-transform:none; letter-spacing:0.03em} .recommendationSection .js-mvc-offer-recommended-article-pack-category {color:#dd1200; font-family:Lato, sans-serif; font-size:15px; font-weight:700; text-transform:uppercase; margin:0} .recommendationSection h4 a {color:#121212; font-size:20px; font-weight:700} .recommendationSection .uxdia-c-featured-tile__content-wrapper {padding: 0 0 .5em 0; margin-bottom: 1.25em; border-bottom: 1px solid #000} </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-NERSTRAND-MN">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Minnesota</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:mnaarp@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mnaarp@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Minnesota</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-minnesota/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-NERSTRAND-MN" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpmn" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpminnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills</title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="GettyImages NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, New, York, State, Senator, Cordell, Cleare, Urge, Governor, Sign, Legislation, Help, Older, NYers, Pay, Energy, Bills" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-new-york-state-senator-cordell-cleare-urge-governor-to-sign-legislation-to-help-older-nyers-pay-energy-bills" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-new-york-state-senator-cordell-cleare-urge-governor-to-sign-legislation-to-help-older-nyers-pay-energy-bills-ny-2024-08-28.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/90cd1a0/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2599x1671+151+0/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fbd%2F3a%2F168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb%2Fimg-1705.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP New York, State Senator Cordell Cleare Urge Governor to Sign Legislation to Help Older NYers Pay Energy Bills"/> <meta property="og:description" content="NEW YORK – AARP New York and Senator Cordell Cleare today urged Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would lower utility for costs of thousands of"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/90cd1a0/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2599x1671+151+0/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fbd%2F3a%2F168fc33d4c5bb299b0c2119f50bb%2Fimg-1705.jpg"/> :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }' $title_for_layout = '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' $asset_version = '230831' $min = true $nowrapper = false $css = ' :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }' $highlighting = '' $location = '<a href="/nerstrand-mn/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Nerstrand, MN</a>' $no_header = false $header_title = '<a href="/nerstrand-mn/happenings/">News Feed</a>' $header_subtitle = '' $isPR = false $navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse"> <div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div> <ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true"> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/nerstrand-mn/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/nerstrand-mn/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li> <li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/nerstrand-mn/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/nerstrand-mn/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/nerstrand-mn/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/nerstrand-mn/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more"> <span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span> <ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu"> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/nerstrand-mn/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/nerstrand-mn/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/nerstrand-mn/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/nerstrand-mn/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li> <!-- <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/nerstrand-mn/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/nerstrand-mn/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/nerstrand-mn/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li> --> </ul> </li> </ul> </nav>' $header_custom = '' $breadcrumbs = array( (int) 0 => array( 'title' => 'News Feed', 'slug' => 'happenings' ) ) $row = array( 'title' => 'Back to News Feed', 'slug' => 'happenings' ) $i = (int) 0include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118