SAINT PAUL, Minn. — With colder weather approaching, the Minnesota Department of Commerce is urging eligible households to apply for energy assistance through the Energy Assistance Program (EAP), known nationally as LIHEAP, despite a hold on federal funding due to the government shutdown.

Typically, Minnesota receives most of its LIHEAP funding by early November, but this year, funding delays may impact payments for heating bills and furnace repairs.

"We are deeply concerned about the potential impact of this funding gap on Minnesota households," said Commerce Commissioner Grace Arnold. "Every winter, LIHEAP helps keep thousands of families safe and warm."

Lissa Pawlisch, assistant commissioner with the Minnesota Department of Commerce’s Division of Energy Resources, said they are worki

See Full Page