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SCS/SB 810 - This act expands the Utilicare program for elderly, disabled and other qualifying individuals.

Currently, Sections 660.100 through 660.136, RSMo, establish the Utilicare program to provide financial assistance for the heating and cooling of elderly, disabled and qualifying households. This act modifies these two sections by changing the definition of "qualified individual household" and, thus, expanding program eligibility. Eligibility will be based on a household income of less than or equal to 150 percent, rather than 110 percent, of the current federal poverty level or 60 percent of the state median income (Sections 660.100, 660.105).

Current law requires the Department of Social Services to coordinate all federal heating assistance programs along with the Utilicare program. This act requires the Department to coordinate all federal programs into the Utilicare program (Section 660.110).

Current law allows a payment of $150 to each eligible household from the Utilicare fund for heating and cooling. This act increases that amount to $600. Language limiting program expenditures is also deleted (Section 660.115). Section 660.120 is repealed.

Currently, funds may be used to pay for reconnecting or maintaining service of eligible households. New eligibility language is again added for qualified households. Language limiting program expenditures is also deleted (Section 660.122).

Section 660.135, RSMo, specifies the amount of appropriations allowed for the program at five million dollars and includes a cost of living adjustment allowance. The Department may currently combine funds with the Department of Natural Resources' low-income weatherization assistance program.

The law established the "Utilicare Stabilization Fund". New language provides that funds may come from any source, including federal funds under the Community Opportunities Accountability and Training and Educational Services Act. Existing language regarding the investment of such funds is removed and new language requires all funds to be used for Utilicare and LIHEAP (Section 660.136).

SARAH MORROW