Utility Cold Weather Rules takes effect Sunday

? Kansans who get behind on natural gas and electric bills will have some protection against shutoffs when the state’s Cold Weather Rule takes effect Sunday.

The rule is imposed each Nov. 1 by the Kansas Corporation Commission, which regulates utilities. It stays in place until the following March 31.

Utilities regulated by the KCC can’t cut off gas or electric service when the temperature is forecast to fall below 35 degrees within the next 24 hours. Disconnections can’t resume until the temperature is forecast to rise above 35 degrees for the next 48 hours.

Companies also must offer customers a 12-month plan to pay off their outstanding utility bills.