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- calendar_today November 2, 2026
Missouri Cold Weather Rule Activated for Winter
The Missouri Public Service Commission has announced that the state’s Cold Weather Rule is now in effect, providing protections for utility customers during the winter months from November 1 through March 31.
Extended Protections Under the Law
This year, the Cold Weather Rule includes expanded coverage following the enactment of Senate Bill 4 in 2025. The bill increased the protected period for heat service disconnection prohibitions based on forecasted temperatures, extending it from 24 to 72 hours. Under the law, utility companies are not allowed to disconnect heat-related services on any day when temperatures are forecasted to drop below 32 degrees Fahrenheit between 6:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. for the subsequent 72-hour period.
Customer Protections and Eligibility
The Cold Weather Rule offers additional safeguards for eligible customers during this period. These include:
- Lenient payment terms and extended payment plans
- Added notification requirements before any service disconnection
- Opportunities for eligible customers to enter into payment agreements with their utility company
Customers who are disabled or aged 65 and older can register with their utility to access extra assistance under these protections.
Steps to Take if You Cannot Pay in Full
If customers are facing difficulty paying their heat-related utility bills in full, the Missouri Public Service Commission recommends the following actions:
- Contact the utility company directly
- Inform the utility of the inability to pay the bill in full
- Provide any required eligibility or verification documents
- Make a minimum payment if the utility requires it
- Discuss or enter into a payment agreement if they qualify
Where to Find More Information and Assistance
Consumers who want more information can visit the Missouri Public Service Commission’s website at www.psc.mo.gov or call the Consumer Services hotline at 1-800-392-4211. Additional information and support regarding the Cold Weather Rule, as well as details about other utility bill assistance programs, may also be available through investor-owned utility companies and local community action agencies.
Conclusion
With the Missouri Cold Weather Rule in effect, residents have important protections against heat service disconnection during winter. Senate Bill 4 further strengthens these safeguards, ensuring vulnerable populations can access heat and vital utility services in the coldest months.
Source: suntimesnews.com.
