‘Deeply concerned’: Federal shutdown delays Minnesota heating aid

The federal government shutdown has now lasted four weeks, and there is still no end in sight.

In Minnesota, that’s impacting people in a variety of ways, including by delaying heating assistance as colder weather sets in.

The Minnesota Department of Commerce confirmed that the shutdown is impacting the state’s energy assistance program, known federally as the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

RELATED: Minnesotans brace for delays in energy bill assistance as government shutdown enters 4th week

What it means

In a normal year, the state would get its LIHEAP funding in early November, allowing Minnesota to start sending payments to eligible households before winter starts and the peak heating season begins. However, this year, the state hasn’t yet gotten its LIHEAP funds for winter.

The Department of Commerce says that means payments to those who need help with heating bills, emergency fuel deliveries and furnace repairs will be delayed.

Despite the delay, the department is still accepting and processing applications.

“We are deeply concerned about the potential impact of this funding gap on Minnesota households,” Commerce Commissioner Grace Arnold said in a prepared statement. “Every winter, LIHEAP helps keep thousands of families safe and warm. Without this assistance, our most vulnerable residents – including seniors, young children, and people with disabilities – could face serious risks.”

What happens now?

The Department of Commerce is encouraging all income-eligible Minnesotans to apply now so that they’ll be approved and ready to receive assistance as soon as federal funding resumes.

State officials say the program supported more than 125,000 households across Minnesota last year, largely helping seniors, children and individuals with disabilities and mostly in Greater Minnesota. The average qualified household received roughly $550, according to the Department of Commerce.

“We’re ready to move quickly once federal funds come through,” Arnold added. “In the meantime, the most important step Minnesotans can take is to apply now, so they’re in the system and ready to receive help the moment it’s available.”

Department leaders say they’re working with utility companies to help keep impacted customers connected during the shutdown.

Lissa Pawlisch, an assistant commissioner with the Minnesota Department of Commerce’s Division of Energy Resources, said Xcel Energy and Minnesota Power have committed to keep LIHEAP-eligible customers connected, even if they might typically have been disconnected for non-payment.

Additionally, Minnesota’s Cold Weather Rule helps protect households from having their utilities shut off during the winter, but that also requires customers to set up and follow a payment plan, something Commerce officials acknowledged can be difficult without any aid.

How to apply

Minnesotans can apply online, via mail or over the phone.

Applicants will need to have certain housing information and identification numbers ready to apply.

Assistance is available for both renters and homeowners, with eligibility based on income and household size. The Department of Commerce says a family of four with an income under $72,000 is one example of an eligible household.

Find more information about the energy assistance program online.
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