Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.head.html): failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 53]Code Context<?php // if (!$nowrapper) (Globals::$language == 'es') ? include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_global_js_es.html") : include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_global_js.html"); ?>
<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.head.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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 12/23/24 </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/df/6f/b8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540/utility-bill-money-picture.png" alt="Utility Bill Money Picture" width="849" height="565"/> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>ALBANY, N.Y.</b> – <b>AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel</b> issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation (S.8760/A.9369) that will assist in the enrollment of eligible older individuals receiving low-cost prescription drug benefits into a federal program that helps with utility costs.<br><br>“By signing this legislation into law, the Governor strengthens her efforts to make New York a more affordable place to live by helping older adult New Yorkers who are eligible for our Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage Program (EPIC) get enrolled in the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). She recognizes the fact that far too many of our older residents struggle to make ends meet, often having to choose between paying for food, rent, medications or utility bills.<br><br>We thank the bill’s sponsors, Senator Cordell Cleare, of Harlem, and Assemblymember John McDonald, of Cohoes, for championing this common-sense legislation that will help so many older New Yorkers ease their financial burden.”<br><br>The Legislature unanimously passed the bill toward the end of its 2024 session, with the Senate approving the measure by a vote of 60-0 and the Assembly by a vote of 145-0.<br><br>The New York State Energy Research & Development Authority released a report from Columbia University showing that while a million households with older citizens were eligible for HEAP in 2017, fewer than 400,000 participated.<br> <br>This new law will establish a collaboration between the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, the Department of Health and the Office for the Aging to help enroll EPIC enrollees into HEAP. In addition, there will be no added cost to New York taxpayers because HEAP is a federal funded utility bill assistance program.<br> <br>Connect with AARP New York on X: <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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210077120%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=cAgSBxeu7ilEk5PLpWpfFzeMQ0UzX%2FhnEEMYottmvOU%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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210087034%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=YLpUxTBzpKtqmqEwlL0Ogy4Ups8MOR3Uz6jlJThG0Jc%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br><b><u> About AARP</u></b><br><br><i>AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP 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="http://www.aarp.org/about-aarp/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/about-aarp/</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://www.aarp.org/espanol" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/español</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.</i><br><br><i>###</i><br><br> <br><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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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 --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-holiday-harmony-qigong-and-nonviolent-communication-with-nate-12282024-5gnv7r5fl8f.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLIDAY-HARMONY-QIGONG-AND-NONVIOLENT-COMMUNICATION">Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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 New York Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP New York Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" 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/AARPNY" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP <br />in Poughkeepsie</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:NYAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NYAARP@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/new-york/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP New York</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/connect-with-aarp-new-york/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpny/" 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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="ALBANY, N.Y. – AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, NY, Lauds, Governor, Signing, Bill, Help, Increase, Number, of, Seniors, Getting, Energy, Relief, Benefits" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits-ny-2024-12-23.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta property="og:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> :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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 12/23/24 </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/df/6f/b8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540/utility-bill-money-picture.png" alt="Utility Bill Money Picture" width="849" height="565"/> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>ALBANY, N.Y.</b> – <b>AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel</b> issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation (S.8760/A.9369) that will assist in the enrollment of eligible older individuals receiving low-cost prescription drug benefits into a federal program that helps with utility costs.<br><br>“By signing this legislation into law, the Governor strengthens her efforts to make New York a more affordable place to live by helping older adult New Yorkers who are eligible for our Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage Program (EPIC) get enrolled in the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). She recognizes the fact that far too many of our older residents struggle to make ends meet, often having to choose between paying for food, rent, medications or utility bills.<br><br>We thank the bill’s sponsors, Senator Cordell Cleare, of Harlem, and Assemblymember John McDonald, of Cohoes, for championing this common-sense legislation that will help so many older New Yorkers ease their financial burden.”<br><br>The Legislature unanimously passed the bill toward the end of its 2024 session, with the Senate approving the measure by a vote of 60-0 and the Assembly by a vote of 145-0.<br><br>The New York State Energy Research & Development Authority released a report from Columbia University showing that while a million households with older citizens were eligible for HEAP in 2017, fewer than 400,000 participated.<br> <br>This new law will establish a collaboration between the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, the Department of Health and the Office for the Aging to help enroll EPIC enrollees into HEAP. In addition, there will be no added cost to New York taxpayers because HEAP is a federal funded utility bill assistance program.<br> <br>Connect with AARP New York on X: <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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210077120%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=cAgSBxeu7ilEk5PLpWpfFzeMQ0UzX%2FhnEEMYottmvOU%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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210087034%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=YLpUxTBzpKtqmqEwlL0Ogy4Ups8MOR3Uz6jlJThG0Jc%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br><b><u> About AARP</u></b><br><br><i>AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP 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="http://www.aarp.org/about-aarp/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/about-aarp/</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://www.aarp.org/espanol" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/español</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.</i><br><br><i>###</i><br><br> <br><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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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 --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-holiday-harmony-qigong-and-nonviolent-communication-with-nate-12282024-5gnv7r5fl8f.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLIDAY-HARMONY-QIGONG-AND-NONVIOLENT-COMMUNICATION">Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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 New York Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP New York Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" 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/AARPNY" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP <br />in Poughkeepsie</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:NYAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NYAARP@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/new-york/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP New York</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/connect-with-aarp-new-york/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpny/" 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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="ALBANY, N.Y. – AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, NY, Lauds, Governor, Signing, Bill, Help, Increase, Number, of, Seniors, Getting, Energy, Relief, Benefits" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits-ny-2024-12-23.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta property="og:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> :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 $css = ' :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }'include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 53 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 53 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118
Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.head.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 53]Code Context<?php // if (!$nowrapper) (Globals::$language == 'es') ? include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_global_js_es.html") : include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_global_js.html"); ?>
<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.head.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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 12/23/24 </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/df/6f/b8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540/utility-bill-money-picture.png" alt="Utility Bill Money Picture" width="849" height="565"/> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>ALBANY, N.Y.</b> – <b>AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel</b> issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation (S.8760/A.9369) that will assist in the enrollment of eligible older individuals receiving low-cost prescription drug benefits into a federal program that helps with utility costs.<br><br>“By signing this legislation into law, the Governor strengthens her efforts to make New York a more affordable place to live by helping older adult New Yorkers who are eligible for our Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage Program (EPIC) get enrolled in the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). She recognizes the fact that far too many of our older residents struggle to make ends meet, often having to choose between paying for food, rent, medications or utility bills.<br><br>We thank the bill’s sponsors, Senator Cordell Cleare, of Harlem, and Assemblymember John McDonald, of Cohoes, for championing this common-sense legislation that will help so many older New Yorkers ease their financial burden.”<br><br>The Legislature unanimously passed the bill toward the end of its 2024 session, with the Senate approving the measure by a vote of 60-0 and the Assembly by a vote of 145-0.<br><br>The New York State Energy Research & Development Authority released a report from Columbia University showing that while a million households with older citizens were eligible for HEAP in 2017, fewer than 400,000 participated.<br> <br>This new law will establish a collaboration between the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, the Department of Health and the Office for the Aging to help enroll EPIC enrollees into HEAP. In addition, there will be no added cost to New York taxpayers because HEAP is a federal funded utility bill assistance program.<br> <br>Connect with AARP New York on X: <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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210077120%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=cAgSBxeu7ilEk5PLpWpfFzeMQ0UzX%2FhnEEMYottmvOU%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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210087034%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=YLpUxTBzpKtqmqEwlL0Ogy4Ups8MOR3Uz6jlJThG0Jc%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br><b><u> About AARP</u></b><br><br><i>AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP 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="http://www.aarp.org/about-aarp/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/about-aarp/</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://www.aarp.org/espanol" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/español</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.</i><br><br><i>###</i><br><br> <br><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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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 --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-holiday-harmony-qigong-and-nonviolent-communication-with-nate-12282024-5gnv7r5fl8f.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLIDAY-HARMONY-QIGONG-AND-NONVIOLENT-COMMUNICATION">Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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 New York Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP New York Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" 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/AARPNY" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP <br />in Poughkeepsie</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:NYAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NYAARP@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/new-york/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP New York</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/connect-with-aarp-new-york/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpny/" 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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="ALBANY, N.Y. – AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, NY, Lauds, Governor, Signing, Bill, Help, Increase, Number, of, Seniors, Getting, Energy, Relief, Benefits" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits-ny-2024-12-23.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta property="og:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> :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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 12/23/24 </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/df/6f/b8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540/utility-bill-money-picture.png" alt="Utility Bill Money Picture" width="849" height="565"/> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>ALBANY, N.Y.</b> – <b>AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel</b> issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation (S.8760/A.9369) that will assist in the enrollment of eligible older individuals receiving low-cost prescription drug benefits into a federal program that helps with utility costs.<br><br>“By signing this legislation into law, the Governor strengthens her efforts to make New York a more affordable place to live by helping older adult New Yorkers who are eligible for our Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage Program (EPIC) get enrolled in the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). She recognizes the fact that far too many of our older residents struggle to make ends meet, often having to choose between paying for food, rent, medications or utility bills.<br><br>We thank the bill’s sponsors, Senator Cordell Cleare, of Harlem, and Assemblymember John McDonald, of Cohoes, for championing this common-sense legislation that will help so many older New Yorkers ease their financial burden.”<br><br>The Legislature unanimously passed the bill toward the end of its 2024 session, with the Senate approving the measure by a vote of 60-0 and the Assembly by a vote of 145-0.<br><br>The New York State Energy Research & Development Authority released a report from Columbia University showing that while a million households with older citizens were eligible for HEAP in 2017, fewer than 400,000 participated.<br> <br>This new law will establish a collaboration between the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, the Department of Health and the Office for the Aging to help enroll EPIC enrollees into HEAP. In addition, there will be no added cost to New York taxpayers because HEAP is a federal funded utility bill assistance program.<br> <br>Connect with AARP New York on X: <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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210077120%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=cAgSBxeu7ilEk5PLpWpfFzeMQ0UzX%2FhnEEMYottmvOU%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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210087034%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=YLpUxTBzpKtqmqEwlL0Ogy4Ups8MOR3Uz6jlJThG0Jc%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br><b><u> About AARP</u></b><br><br><i>AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP 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="http://www.aarp.org/about-aarp/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/about-aarp/</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://www.aarp.org/espanol" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/español</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.</i><br><br><i>###</i><br><br> <br><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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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 --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-holiday-harmony-qigong-and-nonviolent-communication-with-nate-12282024-5gnv7r5fl8f.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLIDAY-HARMONY-QIGONG-AND-NONVIOLENT-COMMUNICATION">Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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 New York Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP New York Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" 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/AARPNY" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP <br />in Poughkeepsie</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:NYAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NYAARP@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/new-york/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP New York</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/connect-with-aarp-new-york/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpny/" 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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="ALBANY, N.Y. – AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, NY, Lauds, Governor, Signing, Bill, Help, Increase, Number, of, Seniors, Getting, Energy, Relief, Benefits" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits-ny-2024-12-23.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta property="og:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> :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 $css = ' :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }'include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 53 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 53 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118
Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.root.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 54]Code Context<?php if (!$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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 12/23/24 </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/df/6f/b8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540/utility-bill-money-picture.png" alt="Utility Bill Money Picture" width="849" height="565"/> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>ALBANY, N.Y.</b> – <b>AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel</b> issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation (S.8760/A.9369) that will assist in the enrollment of eligible older individuals receiving low-cost prescription drug benefits into a federal program that helps with utility costs.<br><br>“By signing this legislation into law, the Governor strengthens her efforts to make New York a more affordable place to live by helping older adult New Yorkers who are eligible for our Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage Program (EPIC) get enrolled in the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). She recognizes the fact that far too many of our older residents struggle to make ends meet, often having to choose between paying for food, rent, medications or utility bills.<br><br>We thank the bill’s sponsors, Senator Cordell Cleare, of Harlem, and Assemblymember John McDonald, of Cohoes, for championing this common-sense legislation that will help so many older New Yorkers ease their financial burden.”<br><br>The Legislature unanimously passed the bill toward the end of its 2024 session, with the Senate approving the measure by a vote of 60-0 and the Assembly by a vote of 145-0.<br><br>The New York State Energy Research & Development Authority released a report from Columbia University showing that while a million households with older citizens were eligible for HEAP in 2017, fewer than 400,000 participated.<br> <br>This new law will establish a collaboration between the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, the Department of Health and the Office for the Aging to help enroll EPIC enrollees into HEAP. In addition, there will be no added cost to New York taxpayers because HEAP is a federal funded utility bill assistance program.<br> <br>Connect with AARP New York on X: <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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210077120%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=cAgSBxeu7ilEk5PLpWpfFzeMQ0UzX%2FhnEEMYottmvOU%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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210087034%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=YLpUxTBzpKtqmqEwlL0Ogy4Ups8MOR3Uz6jlJThG0Jc%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br><b><u> About AARP</u></b><br><br><i>AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP 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="http://www.aarp.org/about-aarp/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/about-aarp/</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://www.aarp.org/espanol" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/español</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.</i><br><br><i>###</i><br><br> <br><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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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 --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-holiday-harmony-qigong-and-nonviolent-communication-with-nate-12282024-5gnv7r5fl8f.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLIDAY-HARMONY-QIGONG-AND-NONVIOLENT-COMMUNICATION">Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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 New York Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP New York Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" 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/AARPNY" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP <br />in Poughkeepsie</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:NYAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NYAARP@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/new-york/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP New York</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/connect-with-aarp-new-york/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpny/" 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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="ALBANY, N.Y. – AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, NY, Lauds, Governor, Signing, Bill, Help, Increase, Number, of, Seniors, Getting, Energy, Relief, Benefits" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits-ny-2024-12-23.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta property="og:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> :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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 12/23/24 </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/df/6f/b8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540/utility-bill-money-picture.png" alt="Utility Bill Money Picture" width="849" height="565"/> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>ALBANY, N.Y.</b> – <b>AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel</b> issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation (S.8760/A.9369) that will assist in the enrollment of eligible older individuals receiving low-cost prescription drug benefits into a federal program that helps with utility costs.<br><br>“By signing this legislation into law, the Governor strengthens her efforts to make New York a more affordable place to live by helping older adult New Yorkers who are eligible for our Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage Program (EPIC) get enrolled in the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). She recognizes the fact that far too many of our older residents struggle to make ends meet, often having to choose between paying for food, rent, medications or utility bills.<br><br>We thank the bill’s sponsors, Senator Cordell Cleare, of Harlem, and Assemblymember John McDonald, of Cohoes, for championing this common-sense legislation that will help so many older New Yorkers ease their financial burden.”<br><br>The Legislature unanimously passed the bill toward the end of its 2024 session, with the Senate approving the measure by a vote of 60-0 and the Assembly by a vote of 145-0.<br><br>The New York State Energy Research & Development Authority released a report from Columbia University showing that while a million households with older citizens were eligible for HEAP in 2017, fewer than 400,000 participated.<br> <br>This new law will establish a collaboration between the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, the Department of Health and the Office for the Aging to help enroll EPIC enrollees into HEAP. In addition, there will be no added cost to New York taxpayers because HEAP is a federal funded utility bill assistance program.<br> <br>Connect with AARP New York on X: <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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210077120%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=cAgSBxeu7ilEk5PLpWpfFzeMQ0UzX%2FhnEEMYottmvOU%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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210087034%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=YLpUxTBzpKtqmqEwlL0Ogy4Ups8MOR3Uz6jlJThG0Jc%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br><b><u> About AARP</u></b><br><br><i>AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP 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="http://www.aarp.org/about-aarp/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/about-aarp/</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://www.aarp.org/espanol" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/español</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.</i><br><br><i>###</i><br><br> <br><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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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 --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-holiday-harmony-qigong-and-nonviolent-communication-with-nate-12282024-5gnv7r5fl8f.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLIDAY-HARMONY-QIGONG-AND-NONVIOLENT-COMMUNICATION">Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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 New York Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP New York Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" 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/AARPNY" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP <br />in Poughkeepsie</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:NYAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NYAARP@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/new-york/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP New York</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/connect-with-aarp-new-york/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpny/" 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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="ALBANY, N.Y. – AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, NY, Lauds, Governor, Signing, Bill, Help, Increase, Number, of, Seniors, Getting, Energy, Relief, Benefits" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits-ny-2024-12-23.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta property="og:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> :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 $css = ' :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }'include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 54 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 54 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118
Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 54]Code Context<?php if (!$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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 12/23/24 </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/df/6f/b8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540/utility-bill-money-picture.png" alt="Utility Bill Money Picture" width="849" height="565"/> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>ALBANY, N.Y.</b> – <b>AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel</b> issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation (S.8760/A.9369) that will assist in the enrollment of eligible older individuals receiving low-cost prescription drug benefits into a federal program that helps with utility costs.<br><br>“By signing this legislation into law, the Governor strengthens her efforts to make New York a more affordable place to live by helping older adult New Yorkers who are eligible for our Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage Program (EPIC) get enrolled in the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). She recognizes the fact that far too many of our older residents struggle to make ends meet, often having to choose between paying for food, rent, medications or utility bills.<br><br>We thank the bill’s sponsors, Senator Cordell Cleare, of Harlem, and Assemblymember John McDonald, of Cohoes, for championing this common-sense legislation that will help so many older New Yorkers ease their financial burden.”<br><br>The Legislature unanimously passed the bill toward the end of its 2024 session, with the Senate approving the measure by a vote of 60-0 and the Assembly by a vote of 145-0.<br><br>The New York State Energy Research & Development Authority released a report from Columbia University showing that while a million households with older citizens were eligible for HEAP in 2017, fewer than 400,000 participated.<br> <br>This new law will establish a collaboration between the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, the Department of Health and the Office for the Aging to help enroll EPIC enrollees into HEAP. In addition, there will be no added cost to New York taxpayers because HEAP is a federal funded utility bill assistance program.<br> <br>Connect with AARP New York on X: <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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210077120%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=cAgSBxeu7ilEk5PLpWpfFzeMQ0UzX%2FhnEEMYottmvOU%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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210087034%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=YLpUxTBzpKtqmqEwlL0Ogy4Ups8MOR3Uz6jlJThG0Jc%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br><b><u> About AARP</u></b><br><br><i>AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP 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="http://www.aarp.org/about-aarp/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/about-aarp/</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://www.aarp.org/espanol" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/español</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.</i><br><br><i>###</i><br><br> <br><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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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 --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-holiday-harmony-qigong-and-nonviolent-communication-with-nate-12282024-5gnv7r5fl8f.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLIDAY-HARMONY-QIGONG-AND-NONVIOLENT-COMMUNICATION">Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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 New York Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP New York Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" 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/AARPNY" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP <br />in Poughkeepsie</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:NYAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NYAARP@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/new-york/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP New York</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/connect-with-aarp-new-york/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpny/" 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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="ALBANY, N.Y. – AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, NY, Lauds, Governor, Signing, Bill, Help, Increase, Number, of, Seniors, Getting, Energy, Relief, Benefits" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits-ny-2024-12-23.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta property="og:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> :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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 12/23/24 </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/df/6f/b8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540/utility-bill-money-picture.png" alt="Utility Bill Money Picture" width="849" height="565"/> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>ALBANY, N.Y.</b> – <b>AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel</b> issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation (S.8760/A.9369) that will assist in the enrollment of eligible older individuals receiving low-cost prescription drug benefits into a federal program that helps with utility costs.<br><br>“By signing this legislation into law, the Governor strengthens her efforts to make New York a more affordable place to live by helping older adult New Yorkers who are eligible for our Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage Program (EPIC) get enrolled in the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). She recognizes the fact that far too many of our older residents struggle to make ends meet, often having to choose between paying for food, rent, medications or utility bills.<br><br>We thank the bill’s sponsors, Senator Cordell Cleare, of Harlem, and Assemblymember John McDonald, of Cohoes, for championing this common-sense legislation that will help so many older New Yorkers ease their financial burden.”<br><br>The Legislature unanimously passed the bill toward the end of its 2024 session, with the Senate approving the measure by a vote of 60-0 and the Assembly by a vote of 145-0.<br><br>The New York State Energy Research & Development Authority released a report from Columbia University showing that while a million households with older citizens were eligible for HEAP in 2017, fewer than 400,000 participated.<br> <br>This new law will establish a collaboration between the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, the Department of Health and the Office for the Aging to help enroll EPIC enrollees into HEAP. In addition, there will be no added cost to New York taxpayers because HEAP is a federal funded utility bill assistance program.<br> <br>Connect with AARP New York on X: <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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210077120%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=cAgSBxeu7ilEk5PLpWpfFzeMQ0UzX%2FhnEEMYottmvOU%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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210087034%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=YLpUxTBzpKtqmqEwlL0Ogy4Ups8MOR3Uz6jlJThG0Jc%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br><b><u> About AARP</u></b><br><br><i>AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP 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="http://www.aarp.org/about-aarp/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/about-aarp/</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://www.aarp.org/espanol" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/español</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.</i><br><br><i>###</i><br><br> <br><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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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 --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-holiday-harmony-qigong-and-nonviolent-communication-with-nate-12282024-5gnv7r5fl8f.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLIDAY-HARMONY-QIGONG-AND-NONVIOLENT-COMMUNICATION">Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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 New York Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP New York Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" 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/AARPNY" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP <br />in Poughkeepsie</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:NYAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NYAARP@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/new-york/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP New York</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/connect-with-aarp-new-york/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpny/" 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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="ALBANY, N.Y. – AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, NY, Lauds, Governor, Signing, Bill, Help, Increase, Number, of, Seniors, Getting, Energy, Relief, Benefits" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits-ny-2024-12-23.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta property="og:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> :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; }'include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 54 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 54 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
ALBANY, N.Y. – AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation (S.8760/A.9369) that will assist in the enrollment of eligible older individuals receiving low-cost prescription drug benefits into a federal program that helps with utility costs.
“By signing this legislation into law, the Governor strengthens her efforts to make New York a more affordable place to live by helping older adult New Yorkers who are eligible for our Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage Program (EPIC) get enrolled in the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). She recognizes the fact that far too many of our older residents struggle to make ends meet, often having to choose between paying for food, rent, medications or utility bills.
We thank the bill’s sponsors, Senator Cordell Cleare, of Harlem, and Assemblymember John McDonald, of Cohoes, for championing this common-sense legislation that will help so many older New Yorkers ease their financial burden.”
The Legislature unanimously passed the bill toward the end of its 2024 session, with the Senate approving the measure by a vote of 60-0 and the Assembly by a vote of 145-0.
The New York State Energy Research & Development Authority released a report from Columbia University showing that while a million households with older citizens were eligible for HEAP in 2017, fewer than 400,000 participated.
This new law will establish a collaboration between the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, the Department of Health and the Office for the Aging to help enroll EPIC enrollees into HEAP. In addition, there will be no added cost to New York taxpayers because HEAP is a federal funded utility bill assistance program.
Connect with AARP New York on X: @AARPNY and Facebook: AARP New York
About AARP
AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation's largest circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.
###
Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET
Zoom
Online Event
Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. ET
Zoom
Online Event
Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET
Zoom
Online Event
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::$language == 'es') ? include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer_es.html") : include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer.html"); ?>
<?php if (!$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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 12/23/24 </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/df/6f/b8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540/utility-bill-money-picture.png" alt="Utility Bill Money Picture" width="849" height="565"/> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>ALBANY, N.Y.</b> – <b>AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel</b> issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation (S.8760/A.9369) that will assist in the enrollment of eligible older individuals receiving low-cost prescription drug benefits into a federal program that helps with utility costs.<br><br>“By signing this legislation into law, the Governor strengthens her efforts to make New York a more affordable place to live by helping older adult New Yorkers who are eligible for our Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage Program (EPIC) get enrolled in the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). She recognizes the fact that far too many of our older residents struggle to make ends meet, often having to choose between paying for food, rent, medications or utility bills.<br><br>We thank the bill’s sponsors, Senator Cordell Cleare, of Harlem, and Assemblymember John McDonald, of Cohoes, for championing this common-sense legislation that will help so many older New Yorkers ease their financial burden.”<br><br>The Legislature unanimously passed the bill toward the end of its 2024 session, with the Senate approving the measure by a vote of 60-0 and the Assembly by a vote of 145-0.<br><br>The New York State Energy Research & Development Authority released a report from Columbia University showing that while a million households with older citizens were eligible for HEAP in 2017, fewer than 400,000 participated.<br> <br>This new law will establish a collaboration between the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, the Department of Health and the Office for the Aging to help enroll EPIC enrollees into HEAP. In addition, there will be no added cost to New York taxpayers because HEAP is a federal funded utility bill assistance program.<br> <br>Connect with AARP New York on X: <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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210077120%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=cAgSBxeu7ilEk5PLpWpfFzeMQ0UzX%2FhnEEMYottmvOU%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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210087034%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=YLpUxTBzpKtqmqEwlL0Ogy4Ups8MOR3Uz6jlJThG0Jc%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br><b><u> About AARP</u></b><br><br><i>AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP 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="http://www.aarp.org/about-aarp/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/about-aarp/</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://www.aarp.org/espanol" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/español</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.</i><br><br><i>###</i><br><br> <br><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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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 --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-holiday-harmony-qigong-and-nonviolent-communication-with-nate-12282024-5gnv7r5fl8f.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLIDAY-HARMONY-QIGONG-AND-NONVIOLENT-COMMUNICATION">Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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 New York Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP New York Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" 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/AARPNY" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP <br />in Poughkeepsie</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:NYAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NYAARP@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/new-york/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP New York</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/connect-with-aarp-new-york/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpny/" 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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="ALBANY, N.Y. – AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, NY, Lauds, Governor, Signing, Bill, Help, Increase, Number, of, Seniors, Getting, Energy, Relief, Benefits" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits-ny-2024-12-23.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta property="og:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> :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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 12/23/24 </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/df/6f/b8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540/utility-bill-money-picture.png" alt="Utility Bill Money Picture" width="849" height="565"/> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>ALBANY, N.Y.</b> – <b>AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel</b> issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation (S.8760/A.9369) that will assist in the enrollment of eligible older individuals receiving low-cost prescription drug benefits into a federal program that helps with utility costs.<br><br>“By signing this legislation into law, the Governor strengthens her efforts to make New York a more affordable place to live by helping older adult New Yorkers who are eligible for our Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage Program (EPIC) get enrolled in the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). She recognizes the fact that far too many of our older residents struggle to make ends meet, often having to choose between paying for food, rent, medications or utility bills.<br><br>We thank the bill’s sponsors, Senator Cordell Cleare, of Harlem, and Assemblymember John McDonald, of Cohoes, for championing this common-sense legislation that will help so many older New Yorkers ease their financial burden.”<br><br>The Legislature unanimously passed the bill toward the end of its 2024 session, with the Senate approving the measure by a vote of 60-0 and the Assembly by a vote of 145-0.<br><br>The New York State Energy Research & Development Authority released a report from Columbia University showing that while a million households with older citizens were eligible for HEAP in 2017, fewer than 400,000 participated.<br> <br>This new law will establish a collaboration between the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, the Department of Health and the Office for the Aging to help enroll EPIC enrollees into HEAP. In addition, there will be no added cost to New York taxpayers because HEAP is a federal funded utility bill assistance program.<br> <br>Connect with AARP New York on X: <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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210077120%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=cAgSBxeu7ilEk5PLpWpfFzeMQ0UzX%2FhnEEMYottmvOU%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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210087034%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=YLpUxTBzpKtqmqEwlL0Ogy4Ups8MOR3Uz6jlJThG0Jc%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br><b><u> About AARP</u></b><br><br><i>AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP 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="http://www.aarp.org/about-aarp/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/about-aarp/</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://www.aarp.org/espanol" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/español</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.</i><br><br><i>###</i><br><br> <br><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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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 --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-holiday-harmony-qigong-and-nonviolent-communication-with-nate-12282024-5gnv7r5fl8f.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLIDAY-HARMONY-QIGONG-AND-NONVIOLENT-COMMUNICATION">Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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 New York Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP New York Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" 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/AARPNY" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP <br />in Poughkeepsie</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:NYAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NYAARP@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/new-york/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP New York</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/connect-with-aarp-new-york/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpny/" 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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="ALBANY, N.Y. – AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, NY, Lauds, Governor, Signing, Bill, Help, Increase, Number, of, Seniors, Getting, Energy, Relief, Benefits" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits-ny-2024-12-23.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta property="og:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> :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 = '<span class="highlighting">Highlighting Poughkeepsie</span>' $location = '<a href="/poughkeepsie-ny/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Mid-Hudson Valley, NY</a>' $no_header = false $header_title = '<a href="/poughkeepsie-ny/happenings/">News Feed</a>' $header_subtitle = '' $isPR = false $navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse"> <div class="containerx"> <div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div> <ul class="secondary-menu containerx" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true"> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li> --> </ul> </li> </ul> </div> </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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 12/23/24 </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/df/6f/b8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540/utility-bill-money-picture.png" alt="Utility Bill Money Picture" width="849" height="565"/> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>ALBANY, N.Y.</b> – <b>AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel</b> issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation (S.8760/A.9369) that will assist in the enrollment of eligible older individuals receiving low-cost prescription drug benefits into a federal program that helps with utility costs.<br><br>“By signing this legislation into law, the Governor strengthens her efforts to make New York a more affordable place to live by helping older adult New Yorkers who are eligible for our Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage Program (EPIC) get enrolled in the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). She recognizes the fact that far too many of our older residents struggle to make ends meet, often having to choose between paying for food, rent, medications or utility bills.<br><br>We thank the bill’s sponsors, Senator Cordell Cleare, of Harlem, and Assemblymember John McDonald, of Cohoes, for championing this common-sense legislation that will help so many older New Yorkers ease their financial burden.”<br><br>The Legislature unanimously passed the bill toward the end of its 2024 session, with the Senate approving the measure by a vote of 60-0 and the Assembly by a vote of 145-0.<br><br>The New York State Energy Research & Development Authority released a report from Columbia University showing that while a million households with older citizens were eligible for HEAP in 2017, fewer than 400,000 participated.<br> <br>This new law will establish a collaboration between the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, the Department of Health and the Office for the Aging to help enroll EPIC enrollees into HEAP. In addition, there will be no added cost to New York taxpayers because HEAP is a federal funded utility bill assistance program.<br> <br>Connect with AARP New York on X: <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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210077120%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=cAgSBxeu7ilEk5PLpWpfFzeMQ0UzX%2FhnEEMYottmvOU%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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210087034%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=YLpUxTBzpKtqmqEwlL0Ogy4Ups8MOR3Uz6jlJThG0Jc%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br><b><u> About AARP</u></b><br><br><i>AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP 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="http://www.aarp.org/about-aarp/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/about-aarp/</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://www.aarp.org/espanol" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/español</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.</i><br><br><i>###</i><br><br> <br><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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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 --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-holiday-harmony-qigong-and-nonviolent-communication-with-nate-12282024-5gnv7r5fl8f.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLIDAY-HARMONY-QIGONG-AND-NONVIOLENT-COMMUNICATION">Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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 New York Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP New York Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" 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/AARPNY" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP <br />in Poughkeepsie</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:NYAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NYAARP@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/new-york/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP New York</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/connect-with-aarp-new-york/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpny/" 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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="ALBANY, N.Y. – AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, NY, Lauds, Governor, Signing, Bill, Help, Increase, Number, of, Seniors, Getting, Energy, Relief, Benefits" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits-ny-2024-12-23.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta property="og:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> :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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 12/23/24 </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/df/6f/b8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540/utility-bill-money-picture.png" alt="Utility Bill Money Picture" width="849" height="565"/> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>ALBANY, N.Y.</b> – <b>AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel</b> issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation (S.8760/A.9369) that will assist in the enrollment of eligible older individuals receiving low-cost prescription drug benefits into a federal program that helps with utility costs.<br><br>“By signing this legislation into law, the Governor strengthens her efforts to make New York a more affordable place to live by helping older adult New Yorkers who are eligible for our Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage Program (EPIC) get enrolled in the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). She recognizes the fact that far too many of our older residents struggle to make ends meet, often having to choose between paying for food, rent, medications or utility bills.<br><br>We thank the bill’s sponsors, Senator Cordell Cleare, of Harlem, and Assemblymember John McDonald, of Cohoes, for championing this common-sense legislation that will help so many older New Yorkers ease their financial burden.”<br><br>The Legislature unanimously passed the bill toward the end of its 2024 session, with the Senate approving the measure by a vote of 60-0 and the Assembly by a vote of 145-0.<br><br>The New York State Energy Research & Development Authority released a report from Columbia University showing that while a million households with older citizens were eligible for HEAP in 2017, fewer than 400,000 participated.<br> <br>This new law will establish a collaboration between the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, the Department of Health and the Office for the Aging to help enroll EPIC enrollees into HEAP. In addition, there will be no added cost to New York taxpayers because HEAP is a federal funded utility bill assistance program.<br> <br>Connect with AARP New York on X: <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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210077120%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=cAgSBxeu7ilEk5PLpWpfFzeMQ0UzX%2FhnEEMYottmvOU%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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210087034%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=YLpUxTBzpKtqmqEwlL0Ogy4Ups8MOR3Uz6jlJThG0Jc%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br><b><u> About AARP</u></b><br><br><i>AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP 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="http://www.aarp.org/about-aarp/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/about-aarp/</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://www.aarp.org/espanol" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/español</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.</i><br><br><i>###</i><br><br> <br><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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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 --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-holiday-harmony-qigong-and-nonviolent-communication-with-nate-12282024-5gnv7r5fl8f.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLIDAY-HARMONY-QIGONG-AND-NONVIOLENT-COMMUNICATION">Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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 New York Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP New York Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" 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/AARPNY" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP <br />in Poughkeepsie</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:NYAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NYAARP@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/new-york/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP New York</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/connect-with-aarp-new-york/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpny/" 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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="ALBANY, N.Y. – AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, NY, Lauds, Governor, Signing, Bill, Help, Increase, Number, of, Seniors, Getting, Energy, Relief, Benefits" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits-ny-2024-12-23.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta property="og:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> :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 = '<span class="highlighting">Highlighting Poughkeepsie</span>' $location = '<a href="/poughkeepsie-ny/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Mid-Hudson Valley, NY</a>' $no_header = false $header_title = '<a href="/poughkeepsie-ny/happenings/">News Feed</a>' $header_subtitle = '' $isPR = false $navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse"> <div class="containerx"> <div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div> <ul class="secondary-menu containerx" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true"> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li> --> </ul> </li> </ul> </div> </nav>' $header_custom = '' $breadcrumbs = array( (int) 0 => array( 'title' => 'News Feed', 'slug' => 'happenings' ) ) $row = array( 'title' => 'Back to News Feed', 'slug' => 'happenings' ) $i = (int) 0include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118
Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243]Code Context<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 12/23/24 </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/df/6f/b8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540/utility-bill-money-picture.png" alt="Utility Bill Money Picture" width="849" height="565"/> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>ALBANY, N.Y.</b> – <b>AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel</b> issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation (S.8760/A.9369) that will assist in the enrollment of eligible older individuals receiving low-cost prescription drug benefits into a federal program that helps with utility costs.<br><br>“By signing this legislation into law, the Governor strengthens her efforts to make New York a more affordable place to live by helping older adult New Yorkers who are eligible for our Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage Program (EPIC) get enrolled in the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). She recognizes the fact that far too many of our older residents struggle to make ends meet, often having to choose between paying for food, rent, medications or utility bills.<br><br>We thank the bill’s sponsors, Senator Cordell Cleare, of Harlem, and Assemblymember John McDonald, of Cohoes, for championing this common-sense legislation that will help so many older New Yorkers ease their financial burden.”<br><br>The Legislature unanimously passed the bill toward the end of its 2024 session, with the Senate approving the measure by a vote of 60-0 and the Assembly by a vote of 145-0.<br><br>The New York State Energy Research & Development Authority released a report from Columbia University showing that while a million households with older citizens were eligible for HEAP in 2017, fewer than 400,000 participated.<br> <br>This new law will establish a collaboration between the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, the Department of Health and the Office for the Aging to help enroll EPIC enrollees into HEAP. In addition, there will be no added cost to New York taxpayers because HEAP is a federal funded utility bill assistance program.<br> <br>Connect with AARP New York on X: <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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210077120%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=cAgSBxeu7ilEk5PLpWpfFzeMQ0UzX%2FhnEEMYottmvOU%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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210087034%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=YLpUxTBzpKtqmqEwlL0Ogy4Ups8MOR3Uz6jlJThG0Jc%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br><b><u> About AARP</u></b><br><br><i>AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP 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="http://www.aarp.org/about-aarp/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/about-aarp/</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://www.aarp.org/espanol" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/español</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.</i><br><br><i>###</i><br><br> <br><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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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 --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-holiday-harmony-qigong-and-nonviolent-communication-with-nate-12282024-5gnv7r5fl8f.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLIDAY-HARMONY-QIGONG-AND-NONVIOLENT-COMMUNICATION">Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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 New York Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP New York Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" 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/AARPNY" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP <br />in Poughkeepsie</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:NYAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NYAARP@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/new-york/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP New York</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/connect-with-aarp-new-york/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpny/" 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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="ALBANY, N.Y. – AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, NY, Lauds, Governor, Signing, Bill, Help, Increase, Number, of, Seniors, Getting, Energy, Relief, Benefits" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits-ny-2024-12-23.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta property="og:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> :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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 12/23/24 </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/df/6f/b8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540/utility-bill-money-picture.png" alt="Utility Bill Money Picture" width="849" height="565"/> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>ALBANY, N.Y.</b> – <b>AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel</b> issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation (S.8760/A.9369) that will assist in the enrollment of eligible older individuals receiving low-cost prescription drug benefits into a federal program that helps with utility costs.<br><br>“By signing this legislation into law, the Governor strengthens her efforts to make New York a more affordable place to live by helping older adult New Yorkers who are eligible for our Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage Program (EPIC) get enrolled in the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). She recognizes the fact that far too many of our older residents struggle to make ends meet, often having to choose between paying for food, rent, medications or utility bills.<br><br>We thank the bill’s sponsors, Senator Cordell Cleare, of Harlem, and Assemblymember John McDonald, of Cohoes, for championing this common-sense legislation that will help so many older New Yorkers ease their financial burden.”<br><br>The Legislature unanimously passed the bill toward the end of its 2024 session, with the Senate approving the measure by a vote of 60-0 and the Assembly by a vote of 145-0.<br><br>The New York State Energy Research & Development Authority released a report from Columbia University showing that while a million households with older citizens were eligible for HEAP in 2017, fewer than 400,000 participated.<br> <br>This new law will establish a collaboration between the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, the Department of Health and the Office for the Aging to help enroll EPIC enrollees into HEAP. In addition, there will be no added cost to New York taxpayers because HEAP is a federal funded utility bill assistance program.<br> <br>Connect with AARP New York on X: <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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210077120%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=cAgSBxeu7ilEk5PLpWpfFzeMQ0UzX%2FhnEEMYottmvOU%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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210087034%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=YLpUxTBzpKtqmqEwlL0Ogy4Ups8MOR3Uz6jlJThG0Jc%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br><b><u> About AARP</u></b><br><br><i>AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP 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="http://www.aarp.org/about-aarp/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/about-aarp/</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://www.aarp.org/espanol" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/español</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.</i><br><br><i>###</i><br><br> <br><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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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 --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-holiday-harmony-qigong-and-nonviolent-communication-with-nate-12282024-5gnv7r5fl8f.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLIDAY-HARMONY-QIGONG-AND-NONVIOLENT-COMMUNICATION">Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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 New York Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP New York Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" 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/AARPNY" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP <br />in Poughkeepsie</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:NYAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NYAARP@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/new-york/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP New York</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/connect-with-aarp-new-york/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpny/" 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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="ALBANY, N.Y. – AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, NY, Lauds, Governor, Signing, Bill, Help, Increase, Number, of, Seniors, Getting, Energy, Relief, Benefits" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits-ny-2024-12-23.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta property="og:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> :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 = '<span class="highlighting">Highlighting Poughkeepsie</span>' $location = '<a href="/poughkeepsie-ny/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Mid-Hudson Valley, NY</a>' $no_header = false $header_title = '<a href="/poughkeepsie-ny/happenings/">News Feed</a>' $header_subtitle = '' $isPR = false $navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse"> <div class="containerx"> <div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div> <ul class="secondary-menu containerx" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true"> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li> --> </ul> </li> </ul> </div> </nav>' $header_custom = '' $breadcrumbs = array( (int) 0 => array( 'title' => 'News Feed', 'slug' => 'happenings' ) ) $row = array( 'title' => 'Back to News Feed', 'slug' => 'happenings' ) $i = (int) 0include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118
Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243]Code Context<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 12/23/24 </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/df/6f/b8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540/utility-bill-money-picture.png" alt="Utility Bill Money Picture" width="849" height="565"/> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>ALBANY, N.Y.</b> – <b>AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel</b> issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation (S.8760/A.9369) that will assist in the enrollment of eligible older individuals receiving low-cost prescription drug benefits into a federal program that helps with utility costs.<br><br>“By signing this legislation into law, the Governor strengthens her efforts to make New York a more affordable place to live by helping older adult New Yorkers who are eligible for our Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage Program (EPIC) get enrolled in the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). She recognizes the fact that far too many of our older residents struggle to make ends meet, often having to choose between paying for food, rent, medications or utility bills.<br><br>We thank the bill’s sponsors, Senator Cordell Cleare, of Harlem, and Assemblymember John McDonald, of Cohoes, for championing this common-sense legislation that will help so many older New Yorkers ease their financial burden.”<br><br>The Legislature unanimously passed the bill toward the end of its 2024 session, with the Senate approving the measure by a vote of 60-0 and the Assembly by a vote of 145-0.<br><br>The New York State Energy Research & Development Authority released a report from Columbia University showing that while a million households with older citizens were eligible for HEAP in 2017, fewer than 400,000 participated.<br> <br>This new law will establish a collaboration between the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, the Department of Health and the Office for the Aging to help enroll EPIC enrollees into HEAP. In addition, there will be no added cost to New York taxpayers because HEAP is a federal funded utility bill assistance program.<br> <br>Connect with AARP New York on X: <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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210077120%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=cAgSBxeu7ilEk5PLpWpfFzeMQ0UzX%2FhnEEMYottmvOU%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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210087034%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=YLpUxTBzpKtqmqEwlL0Ogy4Ups8MOR3Uz6jlJThG0Jc%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br><b><u> About AARP</u></b><br><br><i>AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP 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="http://www.aarp.org/about-aarp/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/about-aarp/</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://www.aarp.org/espanol" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/español</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.</i><br><br><i>###</i><br><br> <br><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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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 --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-holiday-harmony-qigong-and-nonviolent-communication-with-nate-12282024-5gnv7r5fl8f.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLIDAY-HARMONY-QIGONG-AND-NONVIOLENT-COMMUNICATION">Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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 New York Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP New York Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" 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/AARPNY" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP <br />in Poughkeepsie</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:NYAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NYAARP@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/new-york/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP New York</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/connect-with-aarp-new-york/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpny/" 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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="ALBANY, N.Y. – AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, NY, Lauds, Governor, Signing, Bill, Help, Increase, Number, of, Seniors, Getting, Energy, Relief, Benefits" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits-ny-2024-12-23.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta property="og:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> :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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 12/23/24 </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/df/6f/b8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540/utility-bill-money-picture.png" alt="Utility Bill Money Picture" width="849" height="565"/> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>ALBANY, N.Y.</b> – <b>AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel</b> issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation (S.8760/A.9369) that will assist in the enrollment of eligible older individuals receiving low-cost prescription drug benefits into a federal program that helps with utility costs.<br><br>“By signing this legislation into law, the Governor strengthens her efforts to make New York a more affordable place to live by helping older adult New Yorkers who are eligible for our Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage Program (EPIC) get enrolled in the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). She recognizes the fact that far too many of our older residents struggle to make ends meet, often having to choose between paying for food, rent, medications or utility bills.<br><br>We thank the bill’s sponsors, Senator Cordell Cleare, of Harlem, and Assemblymember John McDonald, of Cohoes, for championing this common-sense legislation that will help so many older New Yorkers ease their financial burden.”<br><br>The Legislature unanimously passed the bill toward the end of its 2024 session, with the Senate approving the measure by a vote of 60-0 and the Assembly by a vote of 145-0.<br><br>The New York State Energy Research & Development Authority released a report from Columbia University showing that while a million households with older citizens were eligible for HEAP in 2017, fewer than 400,000 participated.<br> <br>This new law will establish a collaboration between the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, the Department of Health and the Office for the Aging to help enroll EPIC enrollees into HEAP. In addition, there will be no added cost to New York taxpayers because HEAP is a federal funded utility bill assistance program.<br> <br>Connect with AARP New York on X: <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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210077120%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=cAgSBxeu7ilEk5PLpWpfFzeMQ0UzX%2FhnEEMYottmvOU%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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210087034%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=YLpUxTBzpKtqmqEwlL0Ogy4Ups8MOR3Uz6jlJThG0Jc%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br><b><u> About AARP</u></b><br><br><i>AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP 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="http://www.aarp.org/about-aarp/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/about-aarp/</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://www.aarp.org/espanol" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/español</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.</i><br><br><i>###</i><br><br> <br><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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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 --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-holiday-harmony-qigong-and-nonviolent-communication-with-nate-12282024-5gnv7r5fl8f.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLIDAY-HARMONY-QIGONG-AND-NONVIOLENT-COMMUNICATION">Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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 New York Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP New York Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" 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/AARPNY" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP <br />in Poughkeepsie</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:NYAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NYAARP@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/new-york/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP New York</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/connect-with-aarp-new-york/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpny/" 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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="ALBANY, N.Y. – AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, NY, Lauds, Governor, Signing, Bill, Help, Increase, Number, of, Seniors, Getting, Energy, Relief, Benefits" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits-ny-2024-12-23.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta property="og:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> :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 = '<span class="highlighting">Highlighting Poughkeepsie</span>' $location = '<a href="/poughkeepsie-ny/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Mid-Hudson Valley, NY</a>' $no_header = false $header_title = '<a href="/poughkeepsie-ny/happenings/">News Feed</a>' $header_subtitle = '' $isPR = false $navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse"> <div class="containerx"> <div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div> <ul class="secondary-menu containerx" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true"> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li> --> </ul> </li> </ul> </div> </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 243 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243 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.footer.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 244]Code Contextinclude (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 12/23/24 </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/df/6f/b8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540/utility-bill-money-picture.png" alt="Utility Bill Money Picture" width="849" height="565"/> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>ALBANY, N.Y.</b> – <b>AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel</b> issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation (S.8760/A.9369) that will assist in the enrollment of eligible older individuals receiving low-cost prescription drug benefits into a federal program that helps with utility costs.<br><br>“By signing this legislation into law, the Governor strengthens her efforts to make New York a more affordable place to live by helping older adult New Yorkers who are eligible for our Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage Program (EPIC) get enrolled in the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). She recognizes the fact that far too many of our older residents struggle to make ends meet, often having to choose between paying for food, rent, medications or utility bills.<br><br>We thank the bill’s sponsors, Senator Cordell Cleare, of Harlem, and Assemblymember John McDonald, of Cohoes, for championing this common-sense legislation that will help so many older New Yorkers ease their financial burden.”<br><br>The Legislature unanimously passed the bill toward the end of its 2024 session, with the Senate approving the measure by a vote of 60-0 and the Assembly by a vote of 145-0.<br><br>The New York State Energy Research & Development Authority released a report from Columbia University showing that while a million households with older citizens were eligible for HEAP in 2017, fewer than 400,000 participated.<br> <br>This new law will establish a collaboration between the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, the Department of Health and the Office for the Aging to help enroll EPIC enrollees into HEAP. In addition, there will be no added cost to New York taxpayers because HEAP is a federal funded utility bill assistance program.<br> <br>Connect with AARP New York on X: <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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210077120%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=cAgSBxeu7ilEk5PLpWpfFzeMQ0UzX%2FhnEEMYottmvOU%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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210087034%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=YLpUxTBzpKtqmqEwlL0Ogy4Ups8MOR3Uz6jlJThG0Jc%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br><b><u> About AARP</u></b><br><br><i>AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP 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="http://www.aarp.org/about-aarp/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/about-aarp/</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://www.aarp.org/espanol" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/español</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.</i><br><br><i>###</i><br><br> <br><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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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 --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-holiday-harmony-qigong-and-nonviolent-communication-with-nate-12282024-5gnv7r5fl8f.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLIDAY-HARMONY-QIGONG-AND-NONVIOLENT-COMMUNICATION">Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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 New York Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP New York Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" 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/AARPNY" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP <br />in Poughkeepsie</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:NYAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NYAARP@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/new-york/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP New York</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/connect-with-aarp-new-york/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpny/" 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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="ALBANY, N.Y. – AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, NY, Lauds, Governor, Signing, Bill, Help, Increase, Number, of, Seniors, Getting, Energy, Relief, Benefits" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits-ny-2024-12-23.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta property="og:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> :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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 12/23/24 </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/df/6f/b8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540/utility-bill-money-picture.png" alt="Utility Bill Money Picture" width="849" height="565"/> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>ALBANY, N.Y.</b> – <b>AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel</b> issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation (S.8760/A.9369) that will assist in the enrollment of eligible older individuals receiving low-cost prescription drug benefits into a federal program that helps with utility costs.<br><br>“By signing this legislation into law, the Governor strengthens her efforts to make New York a more affordable place to live by helping older adult New Yorkers who are eligible for our Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage Program (EPIC) get enrolled in the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). She recognizes the fact that far too many of our older residents struggle to make ends meet, often having to choose between paying for food, rent, medications or utility bills.<br><br>We thank the bill’s sponsors, Senator Cordell Cleare, of Harlem, and Assemblymember John McDonald, of Cohoes, for championing this common-sense legislation that will help so many older New Yorkers ease their financial burden.”<br><br>The Legislature unanimously passed the bill toward the end of its 2024 session, with the Senate approving the measure by a vote of 60-0 and the Assembly by a vote of 145-0.<br><br>The New York State Energy Research & Development Authority released a report from Columbia University showing that while a million households with older citizens were eligible for HEAP in 2017, fewer than 400,000 participated.<br> <br>This new law will establish a collaboration between the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, the Department of Health and the Office for the Aging to help enroll EPIC enrollees into HEAP. In addition, there will be no added cost to New York taxpayers because HEAP is a federal funded utility bill assistance program.<br> <br>Connect with AARP New York on X: <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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210077120%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=cAgSBxeu7ilEk5PLpWpfFzeMQ0UzX%2FhnEEMYottmvOU%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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210087034%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=YLpUxTBzpKtqmqEwlL0Ogy4Ups8MOR3Uz6jlJThG0Jc%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br><b><u> About AARP</u></b><br><br><i>AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP 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="http://www.aarp.org/about-aarp/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/about-aarp/</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://www.aarp.org/espanol" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/español</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.</i><br><br><i>###</i><br><br> <br><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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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 --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-holiday-harmony-qigong-and-nonviolent-communication-with-nate-12282024-5gnv7r5fl8f.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLIDAY-HARMONY-QIGONG-AND-NONVIOLENT-COMMUNICATION">Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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 New York Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP New York Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" 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/AARPNY" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP <br />in Poughkeepsie</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:NYAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NYAARP@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/new-york/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP New York</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/connect-with-aarp-new-york/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpny/" 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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="ALBANY, N.Y. – AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, NY, Lauds, Governor, Signing, Bill, Help, Increase, Number, of, Seniors, Getting, Energy, Relief, Benefits" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits-ny-2024-12-23.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta property="og:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> :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 = '<span class="highlighting">Highlighting Poughkeepsie</span>' $location = '<a href="/poughkeepsie-ny/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Mid-Hudson Valley, NY</a>' $no_header = false $header_title = '<a href="/poughkeepsie-ny/happenings/">News Feed</a>' $header_subtitle = '' $isPR = false $navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse"> <div class="containerx"> <div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div> <ul class="secondary-menu containerx" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true"> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li> --> </ul> </li> </ul> </div> </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
Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244]Code Contextinclude (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");
include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 12/23/24 </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/df/6f/b8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540/utility-bill-money-picture.png" alt="Utility Bill Money Picture" width="849" height="565"/> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>ALBANY, N.Y.</b> – <b>AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel</b> issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation (S.8760/A.9369) that will assist in the enrollment of eligible older individuals receiving low-cost prescription drug benefits into a federal program that helps with utility costs.<br><br>“By signing this legislation into law, the Governor strengthens her efforts to make New York a more affordable place to live by helping older adult New Yorkers who are eligible for our Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage Program (EPIC) get enrolled in the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). She recognizes the fact that far too many of our older residents struggle to make ends meet, often having to choose between paying for food, rent, medications or utility bills.<br><br>We thank the bill’s sponsors, Senator Cordell Cleare, of Harlem, and Assemblymember John McDonald, of Cohoes, for championing this common-sense legislation that will help so many older New Yorkers ease their financial burden.”<br><br>The Legislature unanimously passed the bill toward the end of its 2024 session, with the Senate approving the measure by a vote of 60-0 and the Assembly by a vote of 145-0.<br><br>The New York State Energy Research & Development Authority released a report from Columbia University showing that while a million households with older citizens were eligible for HEAP in 2017, fewer than 400,000 participated.<br> <br>This new law will establish a collaboration between the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, the Department of Health and the Office for the Aging to help enroll EPIC enrollees into HEAP. In addition, there will be no added cost to New York taxpayers because HEAP is a federal funded utility bill assistance program.<br> <br>Connect with AARP New York on X: <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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210077120%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=cAgSBxeu7ilEk5PLpWpfFzeMQ0UzX%2FhnEEMYottmvOU%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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210087034%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=YLpUxTBzpKtqmqEwlL0Ogy4Ups8MOR3Uz6jlJThG0Jc%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br><b><u> About AARP</u></b><br><br><i>AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP 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="http://www.aarp.org/about-aarp/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/about-aarp/</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://www.aarp.org/espanol" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/español</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.</i><br><br><i>###</i><br><br> <br><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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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 --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-holiday-harmony-qigong-and-nonviolent-communication-with-nate-12282024-5gnv7r5fl8f.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLIDAY-HARMONY-QIGONG-AND-NONVIOLENT-COMMUNICATION">Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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 New York Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP New York Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" 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/AARPNY" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP <br />in Poughkeepsie</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:NYAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NYAARP@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/new-york/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP New York</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/connect-with-aarp-new-york/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpny/" 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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="ALBANY, N.Y. – AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, NY, Lauds, Governor, Signing, Bill, Help, Increase, Number, of, Seniors, Getting, Energy, Relief, Benefits" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits-ny-2024-12-23.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta property="og:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> :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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 12/23/24 </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/df/6f/b8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540/utility-bill-money-picture.png" alt="Utility Bill Money Picture" width="849" height="565"/> </figure> </div> </div><p><b>ALBANY, N.Y.</b> – <b>AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel</b> issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation (S.8760/A.9369) that will assist in the enrollment of eligible older individuals receiving low-cost prescription drug benefits into a federal program that helps with utility costs.<br><br>“By signing this legislation into law, the Governor strengthens her efforts to make New York a more affordable place to live by helping older adult New Yorkers who are eligible for our Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage Program (EPIC) get enrolled in the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). She recognizes the fact that far too many of our older residents struggle to make ends meet, often having to choose between paying for food, rent, medications or utility bills.<br><br>We thank the bill’s sponsors, Senator Cordell Cleare, of Harlem, and Assemblymember John McDonald, of Cohoes, for championing this common-sense legislation that will help so many older New Yorkers ease their financial burden.”<br><br>The Legislature unanimously passed the bill toward the end of its 2024 session, with the Senate approving the measure by a vote of 60-0 and the Assembly by a vote of 145-0.<br><br>The New York State Energy Research & Development Authority released a report from Columbia University showing that while a million households with older citizens were eligible for HEAP in 2017, fewer than 400,000 participated.<br> <br>This new law will establish a collaboration between the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, the Department of Health and the Office for the Aging to help enroll EPIC enrollees into HEAP. In addition, there will be no added cost to New York taxpayers because HEAP is a federal funded utility bill assistance program.<br> <br>Connect with AARP New York on X: <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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210077120%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=cAgSBxeu7ilEk5PLpWpfFzeMQ0UzX%2FhnEEMYottmvOU%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%7C02%7Cccarola%40aarp.org%7C41d9d789408c4cee0f0108dc2724cd31%7Ca395e38b4b754e4493499a37de460a33%7C0%7C0%7C638428286210087034%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=YLpUxTBzpKtqmqEwlL0Ogy4Ups8MOR3Uz6jlJThG0Jc%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">AARP New York</a></span></span><br><br><b><u> About AARP</u></b><br><br><i>AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP 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="http://www.aarp.org/about-aarp/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/about-aarp/</i></a></span></span><i>, </i><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://www.aarp.org/espanol" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><i>www.aarp.org/español</i></a></span></span><i> or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.</i><br><br><i>###</i><br><br> <br><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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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 --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Poughkeepsie</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-holiday-harmony-qigong-and-nonviolent-communication-with-nate-12282024-5gnv7r5fl8f.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLIDAY-HARMONY-QIGONG-AND-NONVIOLENT-COMMUNICATION">Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/poughkeepsie-ny/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY">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 New York Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP New York Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" 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/AARPNY" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP <br />in Poughkeepsie</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:NYAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NYAARP@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/new-york/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP New York</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/connect-with-aarp-new-york/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-POUGHKEEPSIE-NY" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpNY" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpny/" 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 NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits </title> <meta name="page_title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="ALBANY, N.Y. – AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel issued the following statement today on Governor Hochul’s signing of legislation" name="description"/> <meta content="AARP, NY, Lauds, Governor, Signing, Bill, Help, Increase, Number, of, Seniors, Getting, Energy, Relief, Benefits" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/new-york/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/aarp-ny-lauds-governor-for-signing-bill-to-help-increase-number-of-seniors-getting-energy-relief-benefits-ny-2024-12-23.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="AARP NY Lauds Governor for Signing Bill to Help Increase Number of Seniors Getting Energy Relief Benefits "/> <meta property="og:description" content="New law will help eligible older adult New Yorkers "/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d2ffd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/849x546+0+10/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fdf%2F6f%2Fb8c9089dc85826c9eb37c7eae540%2Futility-bill-money-picture.png"/> :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 = '<span class="highlighting">Highlighting Poughkeepsie</span>' $location = '<a href="/poughkeepsie-ny/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Mid-Hudson Valley, NY</a>' $no_header = false $header_title = '<a href="/poughkeepsie-ny/happenings/">News Feed</a>' $header_subtitle = '' $isPR = false $navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse"> <div class="containerx"> <div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div> <ul class="secondary-menu containerx" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true"> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/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="/poughkeepsie-ny/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li> --> </ul> </li> </ul> </div> </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