Koehler-led legislation promotes clean energy, provides financial relief

SPRINGFIELD – Central Illinois residents will soon be able to receive a rebate on their monthly energy bill, thanks to a measure led by State Senator Dave Koehler.

“Energy prices are increasing globally – we must provide local residents with relief on their bills,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “This package ensures local economies throughout downstate Illinois will not be leveled by rising fees while also continuing to prioritize clean energy.”

This package will make energy bills more affordable, bring thousands of jobs to the state, and have great economic impact on local communities.

House Bill 4412 would set a framework to give residents in the MISO region a rebate during the summer months. The measure is designed to offset energy costs for residents when electricity bills are usually the highest.

Funded through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, the rebate would be issued for the June 2023 through December 2034 billing cycles and may be used for up to five monthly billing periods.

“Residents of central Illinois deserve fair prices for their monthly energy bill, as well as the opportunity to continue to move forward toward a greener and cleaner state and economy,” Koehler said. “I look forward to continuing the fight for our downstate communities and their economies.”

House Bill 4412 passed the Senate Sunday.

Koehler promotes IEPA’s second round of electric vehicle rebate program

• EPA
• Electric Vehicle Rebate Program
• Rebates
• SB 2940

PEORIA – People who purchased an electric vehicle in Illinois are now eligible for up to $4,000 in rebates thanks to a law backed by State Senator Dave Koehler through the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency’s second round of funding with the Illinois Electric Vehicle Rebate Program.

“Creating sustainability is crucial in fighting climate change, and it’s our goal to increase accessibility and use of electric vehicles across the board,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “This program helps give more people a chance to be sustainable by providing affordable and accessible electronic vehicles and motorcycles.”

The Electric Vehicle Rebate Program offers $4,000 rebate for purchase of an all-electric passenger vehicle or $1,500 rebate for purchase of an all-electric motorcycle. An all-electric vehicle must be exclusively powered and refueled by electricity, plugged in to charge, and licensed to drive on public roadways. Illinois residents who purchase an all-electric passenger vehicle within 90 days of this round are eligible to apply for a rebate The first round of rebates saw over 2,000 applications and issued over $8.7 million in rebates. Nov. 1 is the beginning of the second round.

Individuals can complete an application for the second round rebate under Illinois’ EV Rebate Program here. Applications for the second funding round opened Nov. 1, 2022 and must be postmarked on or before Jan. 31, 2023.

Senator Koehler continues to work tirelessly on sustainability. He has sponsored other Electric Vehicle bills, such as Senate Bill 2940, which pushed to include motorcycles in the discussion of electric transportation and incentivize their purchase along with vehicles.

“Everyone has a carbon footprint, so even the smallest change in one’s life can be beneficial to the environment,” Koehler said. “This is a positive step toward ensuring affordability and accessibility.”

IEPA will prioritize the review of applications from low-income purchasers and award rebates to people accordingly. After the application period closes Jan. 31 2023, rebates will be issued to eligible applicants based on funding availability. 

###

Koehler offers gratitude to first responders in Illinois

PEORIA – State Senator Dave Koehler urges area residents to give thanks and appreciation to emergency personnel on First Responders Day, which takes place on Friday, Oct. 28.

“First responders put their lives on the line every day to keep our community safe in an emergency,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “It is not an easy job, and these brave individuals deserve all of our gratitude and thanks.”

This day specifically thanks 911 dispatchers, as well as firefighters, police officers, emergency medical technicians and paramedics for their commitment to Illinois public safety.

Koehler reminds residents to extend gratitude to first responders year-round for their dedication and remember those lost in the line of duty.

“I wish to offer my highest gratitude to the individuals who keep our communities safe,” Koehler said. “The men and women who protect us have strength and courage, and should be celebrated for all they do.”

Koehler encourages residents to recognize the contributions of first responders in their communities with ceremonies and activities.

Koehler encourages women to schedule their annual mammogram

PEORIA – State Senator Dave Koehler encourages women to schedule their annual breast cancer screening exam, as Breast Cancer Awareness Month draws to an end. Those who may not have scheduled a mammogram due to COVID-19 are especially encouraged to make an appointment.

“Breast cancer is an all-too-common disease plaguing the health of thousands of women across the country,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “Making an appointment for your yearly exam is vital, as it could help detect signs of breast cancer early.”

Breast cancer affects over 250,000 women and 2,400 men in the United States every year, and the National Cancer Institute reports an estimated 9.4 million screening tests that normally would have taken place in 2020 did not happen due to the pandemic. 

“A diagnosis is life changing, and early detection can help give someone a fighting chance,” Koehler said. “I encourage all women who need to make their annual breast screening appointments and schedule a mammogram to do so as soon as possible.”

IDPH reminds the public that the department’s Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (IBCCP) offers free breast exams and mammograms to uninsured and underinsured women. The program also supports diagnostic services and assists with referrals for treatment options.

To enroll in IBCCP, women can call the Women’s Health Line 888-522-1282 (800-547-0466 TTY). The Women’s Health Line will be able to walk women through the eligibility requirements and the screening process.

Senator Koehler’s office is available to answer questions. To contact, please call (309) 677-0120 or visit his website.