The Kansas Cold Weather Rule will come to an end Thursday. That means Kansans who are behind on electric and natural gas utility bills will be subject to disconnection of service unless they contact their utility company to make payment arrangements.
The Cold Weather Rule 12 month payment plan requires and initial payment of 1/12 of the overdue amount, 1/12 of the bill for current service, the full amount of any disconnection or reconnection fees, plus any applicable deposit owed to the utility. The balance is billed in equal payments over the next 11 months, in addition to the regular monthly bill.
The Kansas Corporation Commission adapted the Cold Weather Rule in 1983 to protect customers during cold weather by providing a reasonable and organized method of paying past due and current bills. It is important to note that the KCC does not regulate co-ops or municipal utilities.
