MN HF4197

Extends the cold weather rule period from October 15 through April 15 to October 1 through April 30, providing two additional weeks of heating service protection at the beginning and end of the period.

Applies to residential customers of municipal utilities and cooperative electric associations with household income at or below 50 percent of state median household income.

Requires utilities to provide customers with notice of proposed disconnection, explanation of rights and responsibilities, list of energy assistance providers, inability-to-pay forms, and information about payment plans at least 20 days before mailing notice (or 15 days if personally delivered).

Prohibits disconnection on Fridays, weekends, holidays, or when utility offices are closed, and requires utilities to investigate whether residential units are occupied before disconnecting service.

Mandates utilities offer payment agreements that consider household financial resources and provide referrals to energy assistance, weatherization, and conservation programs.