As many Minnesotans dig out from an early spring snowstorm, the future of a federal program that helps low-income households pay their heating bills is less certain.
State-level voices cite new spending cuts under the Trump administration. The most recent mass layoffs may include the entire staff that administers the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program — according to reports seen by the Citizens Utility Board of Minnesota. The "LIHEAP" funds are sent to state agencies for distribution.
Annie Levenson-Falk, Citizens Utility Board of Minnesota director, worries about payment delays for Minnesotans in need if federal staff isn't there.
"It's pretty concerning to see just the complete elimination of the staff on what is a vital and extremely popular program," she explained.
In an emailed statement, the Minnesota Commerce Department says so far this season, the program has helped about 107,000 households cover their utility bills. Amid the staffing upheaval, it anticipates running out of funds to help new applicants as early as mid-April.
The loss of LIHEAP staff comes at a time when energy customers are bracing for potentially higher bills economists link to the escalating trade war pursued by President Donald Trump. Levenson-Falk said her organization is watching to see how this region could be affected as America's trade partners respond to sweeping tariffs.
"It's going to really vary depending on where you live. Some utilities get a lot of electricity from Canada and some get much less, but I do think it could have a substantial effect on a lot of Minnesotans," she continued.
Minnesota officials are not only worried about the effects as the last bit of winter weather hangs on. There is also concern about what will happen this summer to households at risk, between the disruption of energy assistance and tariff-induced price hikes.
Levensen-Falk encouraged people who are eligible for aid to keep applying, and reaching out to service providers with questions.
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Events this week include a Mesabi Community Band concert in Eveleth, an arts fundraiser in Bemidji and a 'Nutcracker' story time in Grand Rapids. -
Plus: the city of Walker is accepting applications to fill a vacancy on the Walker City Council, with applications due by noon on Nov. 26, 2025. -
Larissa Donovan/KAXEThe Beltrami County Board heard from the Kitchigami Regional Library System and Beltrami County Historical Society after voting to reduce funding for the institutions in 2026. -
Larissa Donovan/KAXEThe vacancy was created by the resignation of Char Moore, who began her most recent term in January 2025. The appointed councilmember's term would last through December 2026. -
Contributed/Alyssa Sheffield via iNaturalistIn this episode, co-hosts Heidi Holtan and Charlie Mitchell delight in Northern Shrikes, community science projects, and listen to alarm calls from common birds. -
Contributed/Gina FroemmingWith SNAP benefits impacted, a group of residents are doing what they can to help by having a tailgate pantry event 3-5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, in the Paul Bunyan Mall parking lot. -
Contributed/Sarah Nelson KatzenbergerCrosby-Ironton saw its third attempt at an operating levy in as many years pass: a resounding 68.5% of the more than 3,500 people who voted said yes. -
Lorie Shaull/KAXEAbby Daman's coaches said she is a "strong silent example of what hard work can look like." Her work ethic and positive attitude are why she's KAXE's first-ever North Star Student. -
And: Minnesota school districts unpack the results of Tuesday's special elections.
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Contributed/Stop the Hermantown Data Center via FacebookIn a lawsuit filed Nov. 5, 2025, the Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy joined the grassroots Stop the Hermantown Data Center group to demand further environmental review on a proposed data center.
