Citing emergency declarations caused by the coronavirus pandemic, the Kansas Corporation Commission used its emergency powers to issue an order suspending utility disconnects for nonpayment until April 15. The action will offer relief to those experiencing potential hardship from the COVID-19 virus.
The directive covers all electrical, natural gas, water and telecommunications utilities under the KCC’s jurisdiction, several of which have already voluntarily suspended disconnects. The commission also encourages those utilities not under its jurisdiction to enact similar practices. Governor Laura Kelly says that COVID-19 is an unprecedented challenge and many Kansans will face unexpected financial difficulty and no one should have to worry about losing utility service.
