MN SF4422

Extends the cold weather rule period from October 15 through April 15 to October 1 through April 30, providing longer protection against utility disconnections during winter months.

Prohibits municipal utilities and cooperative electric associations from disconnecting residential customers whose household income is at or below 50 percent of state median household income if they have a payment agreement.

Requires utilities to provide customers with written notice of proposed disconnection, explanation of rights and responsibilities, local energy assistance provider information, and payment plan options before disconnection.

Restricts disconnection timing by prohibiting service cuts on Fridays (unless customer declines payment agreement), weekends, holidays, or when offices are closed, and mandates minimum notice periods of 20 days from mailing or 15 days from personal delivery.

Requires utilities to investigate whether residential units are occupied before disconnection and mandates notification to local energy assistance providers if units are found unoccupied.