Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the start of the Essential Plan Cooling Program, an initiative aimed at providing free air conditioners to eligible New Yorkers who are enrolled in the state’s Essential Plan and live with persistent asthma. The program is intended to reduce health risks related to extreme heat and improve living conditions during the 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.”
This program is part of the broader Extreme Heat Action Plan (EHAP), which was developed through Governor Hochul’s 2022 State of the State agenda. The EHAP involves coordination among 27 state agencies and authorities, including leadership from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and NYSERDA. The plan aims for an equitable approach to reducing vulnerability to heat across New York.
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 of 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 affects about 1.4 million adults in New York as reported in 2021 statistics; factors such as high temperatures can worsen symptoms or trigger attacks among those affected by this condition.
To qualify for this new program under NY State of Health’s Essential Plan—an affordable public insurance option—members must have persistent asthma characterized by ongoing symptoms or regular medication use; they also must not have received an air conditioner from HEAP’s Cooling Program within five years prior. Air conditioners will be distributed on a first-come basis until August 31, 2025 or until funding runs out.
The Essential Plan offers low-cost or no-cost coverage throughout the year without monthly premiums or deductibles; it includes medical services such as primary care visits along with dental benefits.
More details about eligibility requirements and how applicants can access these resources can be found on official state websites.
