(KNSI) – The Cold Weather Rule goes into effect Saturday, which limits a utility’s ability to discontinue service for delinquent customers from October 1st until April 30th.
The Public Utility Commission’s Supervisor of Consumer Affairs, Anne Thom, says it is not an excuse to quit paying your bills.
“It doesn’t prohibit shut off. So, what we stress to consumers who call with issues related to a disconnection notice or they’ve already had their service disconnected, is that it is to make a payment plan with the utility and then keep that payment plan.”
Thom says the adjusted schedules can last up to three years in extreme cases.
Thom says if you are concerned about being able to keep your bill current this winter, reach out as early as possible.
“None of them [the utilities] want to disconnect the service, so as soon as people can talk to a utility representative about how to handle this upcoming heating season, and if they have concerns the utility staff are there to assist with that.”
The PUC works with the United States Department of Commerce to assist struggling customers.
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