PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Monday marks the start of Utility Assistance Week in New Jersey. This year, the state has expanded who is eligible for assistance.
“The economic fallout from the pandemic has left many unable to pay their utility bills,” said New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy, and as a result of that fallout, more households qualify for the Universal Service Fund and the Fresh Start Program.
“Help is available,” Murphy continued. “If you are behind on your utility payments, I strongly encourage you to apply for any state assistance programs available to you.”
In an effort to reach and help more people, he said the state is adding $250 million in federal funds to go toward utility shutoff relief programs, specifically related to coronavirus-caused nonpayments.
“The grace period for utility shutoffs related to nonpayments due to a COVID-related hardship only last until the end of this year,” he added.
Murphy encourages people to go to the Board of Public Utilities’ website for an application and more information on expanded eligibility.