When Minnesota temperatures drop, energy bills rise.

District 9-B Rep. Ron Kresha reminds the public of Minnesota’s Cold Weather Rule, which helps families struggling to pay their electric bill and keep their heat on.

Kresha adds state law requires utilities to let customers know before their heat is disconnected. Payment plan options and tips for improving energy conservation must also be made readily available to families who fall behind on payments.

More resources include Energy Assistance, the Gas Affordability Program, and the Low Income Electric Rate Discount Program.

The Cold Weather Rule started Thursday and is effective until April 15, 2016.