Legislation would allow utility costs to count toward rebate eligibility, local lawmaker says

A local lawmaker has announced plans to introduce two bills aimed at assisting Pennsylvania residents with escalating energy costs by expanding the state’s Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program.

State Rep. Joe Hogan, a Republican from Middletown, plans to introduce legislation that would allow claimants of the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program (PTRR) to deduct money spent on utilities — including electricity, water and natural gas — from their income when calculating a rebate. 

The change is intended to increase the number of citizens eligible for the PTRR or result in larger rebates for existing recipients, a statement from Hogan’s office said. 

The second piece of legislation would establish a new supplemental PTRR rebate to specifically address energy expenses. Under this proposal, claimants could receive up to $250 for qualified energy costs accrued during the previous year.

Hogan said the proposals offer relief as prices continue to climb.

“Energy costs are through the roof, and they are becoming an increasing burden on the hardworking people of Pennsylvania,” Hogan said. “While these proposals aren’t going to solve the underlying issues pushing our energy bills higher, it will provide relief for many in our community and across Pennsylvania.”

Both measures are awaiting formal introduction by Hogan.

The PTRR program provides a rebate ranging from $380 to $1,000 to eligible older adults and people with disabilities age 18 and older who are homeowners or renters. The program is funded by the Pennsylvania Lottery and gaming revenue.

Energy costs have been rising in Pennsylvania and across the country due to increased demand and other market conditions.

Recently, Gov. Josh Shapiro, a Democrat, has called for reforms to the region’s power grid operator, PJM Interconnection. The governor is seeking changes that would grant states more authority over the organization’s operation in an effort to keep energy prices stable.