SUMMARY OF BILL
REPORTED FROM COMMITTEE
Senate Bill 288 (as reported without amendment)
Committee: Energy and Environment
CONTENT
The bill would repeal Section 6 of the Michigan Energy Assistance Act to eliminate the Act's sunset of September 30, 2023.
BRIEF RATIONALE
The Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) offers energy assistance and self-sufficiency services to eligible low-income households (households at or below 150% of the Federal poverty level). These services include help with the payment of energy bills, establishment of affordable payment plans, and support for in-home energy efficiency. According to testimony, MEAP is a widely used and popular program, and so it has been suggested that the Program's sunset be eliminated.
Legislative Analyst: Tyler P. VanHuyse
FISCAL IMPACT
The bill would have no fiscal impact on State or local government compared with current law, as the bill would make the MEAP permanent. If the sunset on the statutory authority were not extended or removed, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services would no longer have the authority to administer the MEAP by receiving funds collected annually under the Low-Income Energy Assistance Fund.
Date Completed: 5-24-23 Fiscal Analyst: John P. Maxwell
This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan Senate staff for use by the Senate in its deliberations and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.