Stay Curious. Stay Connected.
MailNewsletters♡Donate Now
Sign up
*Password must be at least 8 characters and contain one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number and one symbol.
Already have an account?
By submitting, you consent that you are at least 18 years of age and to receive information about MPR's or APMG entities' programs and offerings. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about MPR, APMG entities, and its sponsors. You may opt-out at any time clicking the unsubscribe link at the bottom of any email communication. View our Privacy Policy.
Sign in to your profile
Forgot Password?
New to MPR News?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Reset Password

Enter the username on file and we'll send you a code to reset your password.

Still require assistance or not sure what your User Name is?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Email Verification

A verification code has been emailed to

Still awaiting the code?
Dan Kraker
Duluth, Minn.

Cold Weather Rule about to expire

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

State officials are reminding Minnesotans who may need help with heating bills to ask for assistance now before a key rule expires on Tuesday.

It's called the Cold Weather Rule. Between October 15 and April 15, utilities are not allowed to disconnect the heat for customers who request a payment plan. After that deadline, customers behind on their bills are at risk of losing heat.

But help is available for families who need it, said Minnesota Commerce Commissioner Mike Rothman.

"In order to alleviate the budget strain for folks, it's important to know that you can apply for the energy assistance," he said.

The state legislature set aside $20 million this year to help address the winter's spike in heating costs. Lawmakers also raised the limit to qualify to 60 percent of the state median income.

That means a family of four making up to about $52,000 a year qualifies for energy assistance.