The City of Richmond Department of Public Utilities is temporarily pausing disconnections of gas and water services for nonpayment and suspending late fees for November to help residents affected by the federal government shutdown, according to a city news release.

The pause comes as the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, or LIHEAP, is also on hold due to the shutdown. LIHEAP helps households cover heating costs, including natural gas, and its temporary halt has created uncertainty for many. Residents can submit LIHEAP applications to the Department of Social Services before the deadline on Friday, Nov. 14. Approvals will be processed once funding resumes.

The department also encouraged residents to explore other affordability programs, including PromisePay payment plans for overdue utility bills; MetroCare programs for water, heating and water conservation; the SeniorCare Program for residents 65 and older; and the Equal Monthly Payment Plan for gas bills.

“DPU recognizes that many of our customers are affected by this disruption and may be facing financial hardship,” said Scott Morris, senior director of public utilities. “Our goal is to provide support and stability for our community while federal funding processes are temporarily on hold.”

For more information, call (804) 646-4646 or visit rva.gov/public-utilities/billing.