An emergency order to extend the utility winter moratorium period has halted disconnections for LIHEAP-qualified Iowans. LIHEAP is the low-income home energy assistance program that provides financial heating assistance for Iowans. The emergency order for all electric and natural gas utilities is to cease disconnection of residential service due to nonpayment, following a statewide disaster proclamation of public health emergency issued by Governor Kim Reynolds in response to novel coronavirus. The moratorium has been extended to May 1st, usually LIHEAP runs from November 1st to April 1st. Iowans seeking financial assistance for utility bills should contact community action agencies before April 30th.