New York – Governor Kathy Hochul used a rally on the Lower East Side on Tuesday to kick off a statewide enrollment push for the Energy Affordability Program. The initiative, which the state estimates could help 2.5 million eligible households, offers qualifying residents discounts of up to $500 annually on their utility bills.
Expanded eligibility reaches more families
According to the governor, eligibility was broadened earlier this year to include anyone earning below the median income for their area. For example, a household of three in New York City making less than $145,800 per year now qualifies for the discount.
One‑time rebate complements ongoing savings
The enrollment drive follows a separate rebate program announced by Hochul that will provide eligible households with one‑time checks of up to $200. Both measures are part of a $1 billion energy relief effort aimed at easing the burden of rising gas costs for families and small businesses.
“It’s just part of an ongoing, continuous effort to help New Yorkers realize that this is the best place to live, raise a family, and run a business,” Hochul said. “We understand the enormous pressures families and businesses are under, and we’re doing whatever we can to help.”
How to enroll
State officials say roughly one million New Yorkers have already applied for the discount program. Residents can sign up online at NY.gov/EAP or through participating utility companies.
Political context
The program comes as energy costs have become a central issue in Governor Hochul’s re‑election campaign. Republican challenger Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman held a separate news conference on Tuesday, criticizing the governor’s approach. “Kathy Hochul thinks we’re stupid and she’s trying to buy votes because she knows utility bills have skyrocketed,” Blakeman said. “Our utility rates are 70 % higher than the national average, and what is she giving us? Peanuts.”
While the governor’s office emphasizes the tangible savings for households, opponents argue the measures do not go far enough to address the underlying price spikes. Nonetheless, the administration continues to promote the program as a concrete step toward affordable energy for New Yorkers.
Impact on families and businesses
Family advocates have welcomed the program, noting that lower utility costs free up resources for essential needs such as food, healthcare, and education. Small‑business owners also see potential benefits, as reduced overhead can help sustain operations in a competitive market.
State officials plan to monitor enrollment numbers and adjust outreach efforts to ensure that the most vulnerable residents receive assistance. The Energy Affordability Program represents a targeted, state‑level response to a pressing economic challenge, aligning with Governor Hochul’s broader agenda to protect families and support local economies.
Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.
