SPRINGFIELD – A law sponsored by State Senator Ram Villivalam and State Representative Nabeela Syed expands eligibility requirements for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program.

“Home energy is an essential resource that no one should have to go without,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “By expanding the eligibility, we are ensuring everyone has access to programs that keep their energy costs affordable.”

The new law allows people to apply for LIHEAP if they live in subsidized housing, their rental expenses are less than 30% of their household income and their energy bill is paid as a portion of their rent.

LIHEAP helps eligible low-income households pay for home energy services – primarily heating during winter months.

“Ensuring low-income families get a fair deal is a priority for me, so when someone in our community told me they were falling through the cracks, I took action,” said Syed (D-Palatine). “This law will close a loophole that hurts hundreds of underserved Illinoisans, and take us another step closer towards a stronger future for our state.”

House Bill 4141 was signed into law by the governor on Friday and takes effect Jan. 1, 2025.