Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Utility Moratorium topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
St. Paul council urges state to enact energy and gas shutoff moratorium
Summary
Council adopted Resolution 26-253 calling on Governor Walls and the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission to impose a moratorium on gas and energy shutoffs, waive late fees, and expand language access; Council Member Yang led the measure and community groups testified in support.
The St. Paul City Council on Feb. 4 adopted Resolution 26-253 urging the state of Minnesota and Governor Walls to direct the Public Utilities Commission to enact an energy and gas shutoff moratorium and to waive late fees, interest and penalties for the duration of a moratorium.
Council Member Yang framed the measure as a life‑saving call to protect families amid spikes in energy bills and cited community organizations including Unidos Saint Paul and the Citizens Utility Board at the podium. Witnesses and councilors described gaps in existing protections—such as limits of the so‑called cold weather rule and restricted language access for bill assistance—particularly affecting immigrant, refugee, Black and Brown households and certain ZIP codes in Saint Paul.
The resolution also asks utilities to expand language services and arrearage forgiveness and directs the city to press state leaders to act. Councilors recorded support during debate and adopted the resolution as amended.
