The Cold Weather Rule provides additional protections to certain members facing disconnection for non-payment. The Cold Weather Rule allows for the reconnection of the utility service of residential members if the disconnection affects the primary heat source for the residential unit and ALL of the following conditions are met:
1. Disconnection occurs during the period between Oct. 1 and April 30.
2. The household income of the member is at or below 50 percent of the state median household income. Income may be verified by the local energy assistance provider. To meet the income requirement, a member must receive energy assistance or another type of public assistance that uses an income eligibility threshold set at or below 50 percent of the state median household income.
3. Under a payment arrangement with Itasca-Mantrap, a member makes reasonably timely payments based on the financial resources of the household.
4. A member receives from the co-op referrals to energy assistance, weatherization, conservation or other programs likely to reduce the member’s energy bills.
Minnesota's Cold Weather Rule does not completely prevent winter disconnects. Contact Itasca-Mantrap promptly if you receive a disconnection notice, or if you have any questions about the Cold Weather Rule or energy assistance programs. The following agencies provide assistance with energy bills.
Becker County Human Services
218-847-5628
Bi-County CAP, Inc.
Bemidji – 800-332-7161 or 218-751-4631
Walker – 218-547-3438
Hubbard County Human Services
218-732-1451
Mahube-Otwa Community Council
Detroit Lakes – 218-847-1385 or 888-458-1385
Park Rapids – 218-732-7204
Wadena - 218-632-3600
White Earth RBC, White Earth Housing Authority & Energy Assistance Program
218-473-2711
866-885-7656