HB 5788

Abstract

Amends the Illinois Act on the Aging. Requires the Department on Aging to establish a rebate program to assist homeowners aged 65 or older in the payment of their monthly water or sewer or combined water and sewer utility bills. Provides that to receive a rebate under the program, an eligible person must submit (i) a copy of his or her monthly water or sewer or combined water and sewer utility bill issued by a recognized utility service provider, (ii) an original or duplicate receipt acknowledging payment of the total monthly bill amount, and (iii) an application for a water or sewer or combined water and sewer utility rebate as prescribed by the Department. Provides that upon receipt of all application materials and following a final determination of eligibility, including verification that the applicant is the customer of record of the utility service provider, the Department shall issue a rebate check to the eligible applicant in an amount equal to 20% of the total bill amount. Grants the Department rulemaking authority. Prohibits the Department from imposing any income restrictions or requirements for purposes of eligibility under the rebate program. Defines utility service provider.