Missouri’s Cold Weather Rule Begins Sunday

Missouri Cold Weather Rule begins on Sunday. The rule is designed to help customers with heat-related utility bills. It will remain in effect through March 31st of 2021.

The rule applies to natural gas and electric utilities that are under the jurisdiction of the Public Service Commission. He prohibits the disconnection of heat-related service when temperatures are predicted to drop below 32 degrees during the following 24-hour period. The rule provides more aid so that natural gas and electric customers can be reconnected. It allows budget payments, and requires customers to be notified by mail 10 days before the date the utility intends to shut off service. An attempt also needs to be made to contact the customer within 96 hours before the shut off. It also requires the customer to be notified of possible financial help in paying the utility bill.

Customers may register with utilities if they are 65 years of age or older, disabled to the extent the utility is needed to maintain life or health, or if they have obtained a formal award letter from the federal government of utility benefits.

Customers should also contact the utility company if a bill cannot be paid in full to arrangement a payment arrangement.