Minnesota is in its first cold snap of the fall season, and a new law aims to protect renters from thermostat hang-ups with their landlord.
It coincides with renewed calls for residents in need to tap into heating bill assistance.
A new state law requires landlords to ensure inside temperatures within rental units don't go below 68 degrees between October and the end of April.
And for households struggling to keep up with heating costs, local offices are again assisting with applications for the state's Energy Assistance Program, which helps cover those expenses.
Nicole Paulson - energy assistance program manager for the Southeastern Minnesota Community Action Agency - said it gives families financial breathing room.
"They're able to maybe pay more towards groceries," said Paulson, "or their kids are allowed to do a sporting event that they wouldn't have been able to do."
Just a few years ago, Minnesota expanded income eligibility for this type of aid. For example, a household of four can earn up to $68,000 and still qualify.
Last year, offices under the Minnesota Community Action Partnership network processed nearly 200,000 energy assistance applications.
Even though consumer prices have cooled, Paulson said some households may still be feeling the effects of inflation and are considering this type of aid for the first time.
She said offices like hers can make the application process less stressful.
"We in the office here determine your eligibility," said Paulson, "and based on that, you are awarded a grant."
The typical grant is around $500, which goes to your utility provider to apply to your heating costs. These grants are available to both renters and homeowners.
As for other legal protections, Minnesota has a longstanding Cold Weather Rule, which prevents utility disconnections during the winter - so long as customers behind on their bills work out a reasonable payment plan with their utility.
