Cold Weather Disconnect Law

Notice of Residential Customer Rights and Possible Assistance
The Cold Weather Law, Section 216B.097 of the Public Utilities Act, provides that, a cooperative electric association must not disconnect the utility service of a residential cooperative customer during the period between October 15 through April 15 if the disconnection affects the primary heat source for a residential unit and the following conditions are met:

• The household income of the customer is at or below 50 percent of the state median household income.  Income may be verified on forms provided by the co-op or by the local energy assistance provider.  A customer meets the income requirement if the customer receives energy assistance or other type of public assistance that uses an income eligibility threshold set at or below 50 percent of the state median household income.
• A customer enters into and makes reasonably timely payments under a payment agreement that considers the financial resources of the household.
• A customer receives from the co-op referrals to energy assistance, weatherization, conservation or other programs likely to reduce the customer's energy bills.

The purpose of this notice is to inform you of your rights and responsibilities under the Cold Weather Law. These rights and responsibilities are designed to help you meet winter utility bills. You must act promptly! If you choose not to assert your rights or choose not to enter into a mutually acceptable payment schedule, your service may be disconnected. Contact our office for provisions.

If you need help paying your electric utility bill, you may qualify for state or federal fuel assistance. For complete qualification and application information, contact your local county social service office or community/citizen's action council listed below. These organizations may also provide budget counseling.

Local Energy Assistance Providers
Community Family Service Center Tri-Valley Opportunity Council, Inc. 1407 Erskine Street Crookston, MN 56716 (866) 264-3729 (218) 281-9080 Fax: (218) 281-0181 (All Norman & W. Polk Counties)	West Central MN Community Action 411 Industrial Park Blvd. Elbow Lake, MN 56531 (800) 492-4805 (Clay County Only)