Senate approves Hunter bill prohibiting utility shutoffs in extreme heat

SPRINGFIELD — With Illinois facing more days of dangerous heat each year, residents behind on paying their bills risk having their utilities shut off at a time when air conditioning and fans are essential. To protect families from losing access to these lifesaving cooling methods, State Senator Mattie Hunter led a measure that will prevent the shutoff of gas or electricity on days with excessive heat.

“Utility interruptions during extreme heat are dangerous, especially for seniors, individuals with health conditions and young children,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “Without access to air conditioning or cooling measures, our neighbors are at an increased risk of dehydration, heat stroke and other heat-related illnesses.”

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Hunter advances measure to prevent utility shutoffs in extreme heat

SPRINGFIELD — As Illinois sees more frequent and severe heat waves, residents behind on their utility bills in the summer could be at risk of life-threatening consequences. State Senator Mattie Hunter is leading a measure through the Senate to further protect vulnerable citizens from having their gas or electric service disconnected during extreme heat.

“With hotter temperatures and more days of extreme heat each year, people are facing an increased risk of heat-related illnesses,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “This bill will ensure families do not lose access to lifesaving cooling methods during periods of high heat, even if they are behind on paying their bills.”

House Bill 1541 amends the Public Utilities Act to prohibit a utility company from terminating gas or electric service due to nonpayment of bills on days when the forecasted temperature is 90 degrees Fahrenheit or above, or when the National Weather Service issues a heat watch, warning or advisory. Currently, the Public Utilities Act prohibits disconnection when the temperature is 95 degrees or hotter but does not account for when the heat index may rise to dangerous levels.

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Hunter initiative strengthens DCFS’ goal of permanent placements for youth

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Mattie Hunter is leading a measure to reinforce that services provided by the Department of Children and Family Services are intended to be temporary until the involved child can be safely returned home or find a permanent home.

“It is vital that our child welfare services prioritize the placement of children in suitable family arrangements, particularly when reunification or adoption are not possible,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “This bill strengthens the state’s goal of ensuring that every child has the opportunity to grow up in a loving, permanent family.”

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