Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the launch of the Essential Plan Cooling Program, which aims to provide free air conditioners to eligible New Yorkers enrolled in the state’s Essential Plan who are living with persistent asthma. The initiative is designed to reduce health risks related to extreme heat and improve quality of life during summer months.
“As climate change continues to bring more frequent and intense heat waves to New York, we are taking action to protect our most vulnerable residents,” Governor Hochul said. “The Essential Plan Cooling Program is a life-saving resource that will help New Yorkers with chronic health conditions like asthma be able to affordably stay safe and healthy against extreme heat.”
The program forms part of the broader Extreme Heat Action Plan (EHAP), a coordinated effort involving 27 state agencies and authorities. EHAP was developed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and NYSERDA as part of Governor Hochul’s 2022 State of the State agenda, outlining strategies to reduce vulnerability during periods of high temperatures.
New York State Department of Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald stated, “Extreme heat can be life threatening as well as a public health emergency, especially for those with chronic conditions like asthma. This innovative cooling program helps ensure that vulnerable New Yorkers can breathe easier and stay safer during the hottest months. We are proud to support a program that combines environmental awareness with proactive care.”
Danielle Holahan, Executive Director at NY State of Health, said, “NY State of Health remains committed to addressing all aspects of health, including ensuring at-risk populations stay safe in excessive heat. The Essential Plan Cooling Program adds a vital benefit that allows New Yorkers living with persistent asthma to live healthier lives and is a critical lifeline for those who need it most.”
Barbara C. Guinn, Commissioner at the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, added, “By providing free air conditioners to eligible members living with persistent asthma, the Cooling Program strengthens New York State’s commitment to providing vital cooling assistance to New Yorkers who are at high risk in heat emergencies. We are proud to work with Governor Hochul, the Department of Health, and all our state partners to provide our most vulnerable New Yorkers with the tools and resources they need to get relief and stay safe during periods of extreme heat.”
Dr. Michelle Morse, Acting Commissioner at the New York City Health Department noted: “The new cooling program available through the Essential Plan is a welcome expansion of protection for New York City residents as climate change heats up our city. The summer heat kills more than 500 New York City residents every year, and people living without air conditioning at home – particularly those with chronic illnesses – are at greatest risk. The Essential Plan is paving the way for health care system response with this ‘prescription’ of home cooling for those in need.”
Asthma continues to be one of the most prevalent chronic conditions nationally; about 1.4 million adults in New York were affected by asthma in 2021. Factors such as extreme heat can worsen symptoms significantly for these individuals.
To qualify for an air conditioner under this new program, applicants must be enrolled in NY State of Health’s Essential Plan due to persistent asthma—defined by ongoing symptoms or regular medication needs—and must not have received an air conditioning unit from HEAP within five years prior. Distribution will occur on a first-come basis until August 31 or until funding runs out.
The Essential Plan offers low-cost or no-cost coverage year-round enrollment options including primary care services among other benefits.
For further details about eligibility requirements or how applications can be submitted visit NY State’s official website.
