As of today, the state law that prevents winter utility shut-offs stops protecting customers who have been unable to pay their bills. Heat and electric companies report a significant increase in unpaid bills, due in large part to the tripling of gas prices this season. And more customers are appealing to the state for help in paying their energy bills. John Harvanko is director of the Office of Energy Programs for the Minnesota Department of Economic Security. His office distributes federal grant money for heating assistance. He says it's possible that shut-offs will take place but he doesn't know of any: