Missouri’s Cold Weather Rule Begins Nov. 1 With Expanded 72-Hour Protection

LINCOLN COUNTY, Mo. — Missouri residents facing unpaid heating bills will receive expanded protection from utility shutoffs beginning Nov. 1 as the state’s Cold Weather Rule takes effect for the winter.

Under the law, heat-related utility service cannot be disconnected when temperatures are forecast to fall below 32 degrees between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. during the following 72-hour period.

The protection previously relied on a 24-hour forecast. Senate Bill 4, passed in 2025, extended that window to 72 hours, giving families more protection when freezing weather is approaching.

The Cold Weather Rule remains in effect through March 31.

The rule also provides eligible customers with more lenient payment terms, extended payment plans and additional notification requirements before heat-related service can be disconnected.

Customers who are disabled or older than 65 may register with their utility company to receive additional assistance.

The seasonal protection does not eliminate unpaid balances. Customers who cannot pay a heating bill in full should contact their utility as soon as possible instead of waiting for a disconnection notice.

The Missouri Public Service Commission recommends that customers:

• Contact their utility company.

• Explain that they are unable to pay the bill in full.

• Provide any documents required to establish eligibility.

• Make the minimum payment required by the utility.

• Enter a payment agreement when eligible.

Residents should contact the company providing their heat-related utility service to learn whether they qualify and what payment arrangements are available.

Information about additional utility-assistance programs may also be available through the utility company or a local community-action agency.

Consumers with questions about Missouri’s Cold Weather Rule can contact the Missouri Public Service Commission’s Consumer Services hotline at 1-800-392-4211 or visit psc.mo.gov.

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Source:

• Missouri Public Service Commission news release issued Oct. 30, 2026