Rocky Creek Conservation Area along the Current River, January 2023, Missouri Dept of Conservation, Courtesy
JEFFERSON CITY, MO (NewsFirst) – As the calendar flips to November, the Missouri Public Service Commission (PSC) is set to implement its Cold Weather Rule, a crucial measure aimed at assisting customers dealing with heat-related utility bills. Starting on Wednesday, November 1st through March 31st, this rule applies to natural gas and electric utilities under PSC jurisdiction that offer heat-related services.
It’s essential to note that municipally operated systems, cooperatives, and propane delivery services by truck fall outside the purview of the PSC.
The Cold Weather Rule introduces several key provisions, including the prevention of disconnections for heat-related services when the temperature is expected to dip below 32 degrees within the next 24 hours. It also offers more lenient payment terms, allowing reconnection for natural gas and electric customers, while permitting customers to spread payments over a 12-month period.
For customers meeting specific criteria, additional assistance is available. Those who are 65 years of age or older, disabled to a degree that necessitates natural gas or electric utility service for life or health maintenance (as certified by a medical physician), or individuals holding a formal award letter from the federal government for disability benefits can register with their utility providers.
To find out more about the PSC’s Cold Weather Rule and its provisions, please visit the Commission’s official website at psc.mo.gov or reach out to the Commission’s Consumer Services hotline at 1-800-392-4211.
