ST. PAUL, MN – With winter almost here, many Minnesotans struggle to pay their utility bills, which can be much higher during the cold winter months. To help residents keep the heat on, Representative John Ward (DFL – Baxter) is informing constituents about a Minnesota program called the Cold Weather Rule, which is in effect from October 15 through April 15 each winter.
The Cold Weather Rule applies to homeowners and renters who pay their own heating bills. While not a moratorium on utility disconnections, the rule allows customers who contact their electric and/or natural gas utility to make and keep a payment plan.
To participate, a resident must contact his/her heating utility.
“In our tough Minnesota winters, no one should have to go without heat, regardless of their financial circumstances,” said Rep. Ward. “I strongly encourage constituents in need to contact their utility company, work out a payment plan and ensure their heat stays on.”
For more information on the Cold Weather Rule, contact the Public Utilities Commission at consumer.puc@state.mn.us or 800-657-3782, or visit http://www.puc.state.mn.us/PUC/consumers/shut-off-protection/index.html.
Rep. Ward encourages constituents to contact him with any questions, comments, concerns, or ideas on any legislative topic. Rep. Ward can be reached by phone at 651-296-4333 or by email at rep.john.ward@house.mn.