Missouri Passes New Rules to Stop Utility Shutoffs During Extreme Weather

JEFFERSON CITY, Missouri — Starting this week, Missouri utility companies can no longer cut off gas or electricity when extreme weather is in the forecast, thanks to a new law that significantly expands consumer protections.

What the New Law Does

Previously, utilities were required to pause disconnections for 24 hours when severe hot or cold weather was predicted. Under the new rules, passed as part of a sweeping utility reform bill known as SB4, the protection period is extended to 72 hours.

The law applies to both electric and natural gas services.

• Summer protections: From June 1 to Sept. 30, shutoffs are blocked when temperatures are forecast to reach 95°F or a 105°F heat index.
• Winter protections: From Nov. 1 to March 31, shutoffs are paused when forecasts predict 32°F or below.

How Many More Days Are Protected?

If the rules had been in effect last year, state data shows they would have added 18 extra protected days during the summer and 25 additional days during the winter months.

This expansion comes amid growing concerns about the deadly impact of extreme weather. According to the National Weather Service, heat kills more people annually than hurricanes, floods, or tornadoes.

Why the Change Matters

In June, more than 160,000 Missouri customers were behind on their utility bills. Records show Ameren disconnected over 4,000 customers that month alone.

That same month, a St. Louis County woman was found dead in her hot apartment after Ameren cut her power for nonpayment. While officials are still investigating her cause of death, her case highlighted the life-or-death consequences of losing electricity during dangerous heat waves.

Looking Ahead

With the new law in place, vulnerable households will now be better protected during heat waves and cold snaps. Utilities are still allowed to disconnect customers for unpaid bills, but they must wait until the forecast no longer calls for extreme temperatures.

Missouri’s expanded utility shutoff protections mark a significant step toward ensuring public safety during the state’s most dangerous weather conditions.

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