Illinois Reconnection Initiative Begins

As part of his “Keep Warm Illinois campaign,”  Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich on December 17 announced the start of the Good Samaritan Initiative for the 2007-2008 winter season. The Initiative provides more affordable reconnection terms to LIHEAP recipients who have had their utility services disconnected.  Nicor Gas, Peoples Energy and Ameren are participating for the fifth straight year.

The Initiative helps disconnected low-income customers by reducing the amount that the utility companies require to restore service. LIHEAP recipients, whose outstanding balances are too high to be covered by a grant alone but are less than $3,000, are required to pay $250 or 20 percent of the remaining balance, whichever is less, to have their service restored. Customers must also set up payment plans with their utilities for the remainder of their balance.

For more information see the Governor’s press release  or visit the Keep Warm Illinois website.

Source: Governor’s Office

Page Last Updated: January 2, 2008