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Dear Neighbors,
I hope this letter finds you staying warm. With the subzero forecast sticking around for the next week or so, I want to share information about Minnesota’s Energy Assistance Program. No one deserves to be in the cold because they can’t afford their heating bills. Help is available with utility bills, to repair or replace homeowners’ malfunctioning furnaces, and to purchase fuel for delivery in emergencies. Homeowners and renters with young children, people with disabilities, veterans, seniors and people experiencing unemployment or financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic are especially encouraged to apply.
Minnesota’s Energy Assistance Program
In 2020, the Minnesota’s Energy Assistance Program helped nearly 118,000 Minnesota households. New applicants have until May 31, 2021 to apply, however funding is limited and administered on a first-come, first-served basis. More information is available from the Minnesota Department of Commerce. Additionally, the state’s Cold Weather Rule is in effect until April 15 which prevents utility shut-offs if you sign up for a payment plan with your energy provider. More information on these protections is available from the Public Utilities Commission.
Here is information in English, Spanish, Somali and Hmong:
MN Energy Assistance Flyer - English
MN Energy Assistance Flyer - Spanish
MN Energy Assistance Flyer - Somali
MN Energy Assistance Flyer - Hmong
MNSure Special Enrollment Period
Minnesota's health insurance marketplace, MNSure, will be open for a special enrollment period, starting February 16 through May 17, 2021. Certain life changes like moving, having a baby, getting married, or turning 26 allows for the special enrollment period to occur. Minnesota residents and families deserve access to quality, affordable health care. It’s critical, now more than ever, for everyone to have insurance. Learn about how to enroll here.
Earned Sick and Safe Time
No one should have to choose between caring for themselves or a loved one and a paycheck. Last week, we announced our new bill to expand Earned Sick and Safe Time in which I am an author. The bill aims to provide an important short-term benefit to workers by allowing them to accrue sick time based on the number of hours worked. For many Minnesotans, the difficult choice between a paycheck and taking time off to care for a sick child is a real problem, especially for low-wage and service industry workers. This requirement has several key additional benefits, including healthier workplaces and schools, greater support for caregivers, and reduced health care costs.
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