Senators Matt Klein and Nick Frentz Statement on Uncertainty of Federal Funding for Energy Assistance Program

The Minnesota Department of Commerce learned this week that the entire staff of the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) through the federal government was laid off as a result of cuts to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

The LIHEAP program, administered by the Minnesota Department of Commerce, provides energy assistance to help Minnesotans pay utility bills and keep their heat on. Over 130,000 Minnesotans receive assistance each year, with two-thirds living in Greater Minnesota, half over 60, and one in six households with children under 6 years old.

The state expects to run out of existing LIHEAP money to assist Minnesotans in mid-April. After all federal staff were laid off it is unclear whether the Department of Commerce will receive the remaining funds to distribute.

Senator Matt Klein (DFL – Mendota Heights), Chair of Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee:

LIHEAP is a trusted program, and I am disappointed to see such abrupt cuts that jeopardize Minnesotan’s access to energy assistance. Around 130,000 Minnesota households receive assistance each year, many including seniors and families with young children. A delay in funding for this program can increase the risk of shutoff warnings for Minnesotans. I am committed to ensuring the needs of Minnesotans are met, regardless of uncertainty from the federal government.”

Senator Nick Frentz (DFL – North Mankato), Chair of Energy, Utilities, Environment, and Climate Committee:

“Keeping our homes warm and lights on is a basic need in Minnesota, and the LIHEAP program has helped support our efforts to do that for over 45 years. I will continue to monitor the situation and work with the Minnesota Department of Commerce and our energy and utilities providers to ensure Minnesotans get the assistance they need.”