Disconnect Policies

This page provides a comprehensive summary of disconnection policies and resources by state. To view a specific state, please select the state below or scroll down.


NOTE: These policies may not apply to all utilities in your state. Public Utility Commissions (PUCs) and Public Service Commissions (PSCs) are charged with regulating utility companies and with ensuring that the utility companies provide their services at a reasonable price. In general, municipal utilities, rural electric cooperatives and deliverable fuel providers are not regulated by PUCs/PSCs. The policies do not apply to them, though they may choose to comply with the regulations. Check with your PUC/PSC contacts and/or websites below to see if the state policy applies to your utility and read the Consumer FAQs or Bill of Rights for more information. If you have a dispute with your utility, you should try to resolve it with the utility first before calling your PUC/PSC.

LAST UPDATED: June 2024

• Alabama • Idaho • Missouri • Pennsylvania
• Alaska • Illinois • Montana • Rhode Island
• Arizona • Indiana • Nebraska • South Carolina
• Arkansas • Iowa • Nevada • South Dakota
• California • Kansas • New Hampshire • Tennessee
• Colorado • Kentucky • New Jersey • Texas
• Connecticut • Louisiana • New Mexico • Utah
• Delaware • Maine • New York • Vermont
• District of Columbia • Maryland • North Carolina • Virginia
• Florida • Massachusetts • North Dakota • Washington
• Georgia • Michigan • Ohio • West Virginia
• Hawaii • Minnesota • Oklahoma • Wisconsin
  • Mississippi • Oregon • Wyoming

 

        National Summary

 

40 States have Cold Weather disconnection protection policies.
 

19 States have Hot Weather disconnection protection policies.
 

2 States have policies to prevent disconnections during extreme weather events.
 

39 States have policies to prevent disconnections for vulnerable populations.

 

Alabama

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: 32°F or below

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • No

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: "Each utility shall adopt, and follow, reasonable tariff rules governing its termination of service practices (except telephone toll service) when life or health may be threatened by termination, the customer requires special consideration because of age or handicap, or other circumstances warranting special consideration." - (General Rules of the Alabama Public service Commission Rule 12(E)).
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • None
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Alaska

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • No

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • No

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: "if a utility has been informed that a residence is occupied by a person seriously ill, elderly, with a disability, or dependent on life support systems, the utility shall provide the notice required by (1) of this subsection at least 30 days before the scheduled date of disconnection."
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • None
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Arizona

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: 32°F and below

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: June 1 - October 15
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: 95°F and above

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • The rules allow electric utilities to choose between two disconnection options during periods of extreme weather: if the forecasted temperature is above 95°F or below 32°F, or they can choose to continue utilizing the June 1 through October 15 disconnection moratorium period.

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • No
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • None
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Arkansas

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: November 1 - March 31
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: 32°F and below

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: 95°F and above

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: “An electric or gas utility cannot suspend service to a customer who is identified as 65 years or older or handicapped if the National Weather forecast predicts a temperature of 95 degrees Fahrenheit will occur during the next twenty-four hours.”
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • None
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

California

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: Forecast to be 32°F or below within next 72 hours.

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: Forecast to be 100°F or above within next 72 hours. 

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: “A customer must obtain a signature on a pre-printed form from a licensed physician or other health care provider certifying as to the customer’s condition. Each of the utilities have processes in place to protect customers who have taken steps to have themselves identified as life support or critical care i.e., where service termination could be life threatening."
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • None
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Colorado

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: 32°F and below

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: 95°F and above

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: "A utility shall postpone discontinuance of electric service to a residential customer for 90 days from the date of a medical certificate issued by a Colorado-licensed physician, health care practitioner acting under a physician's authority, or health care practitioner licensed to prescribe and tread patients which evidences that service discontinuance will aggravate an existing medical emergency or create a medical emergency for the customer or a permanent resident of the customer's household."
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • None
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Connecticut

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: November 1 - May 1
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • No

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • No

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: "A person or any resident of the person's home who is seriously ill, as certified by a registered physician[...], or has a life threatening situation[...] "Life threatening situation" means a condition certified by a registered physician that would endanger the life of the customer or a member of the customer's household if gas or electric service were terminated"
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • None
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Delaware

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: November 15 - March 31
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria 32°F and below

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: June 30 - September 30
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: 105°F and above

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: "That if any occupant of the dwelling unit is so ill that termination of the utility service would adversely affect health or recovery, which fact has been certified by a statement from any licensed Delaware physician or any accredited Christian Science practitioner, when such certification is received by the covered utility or its employee, termination of service is prohibited by Delaware Law."
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • None
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

District of Columbia

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria 32°F and below

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: 95°F and above

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: "A Utility shall postpone the Disconnection of service for a reasonable time not to exceed twenty-one (21) Days if the Utility is provided with a physician's certificate or notice from a public health official which states that Disconnection would be detrimental to the health and safety of a bona fide occupant of the premises."
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • None
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Florida

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • No

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • No

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • No
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • None
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Georgia

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: November 15 - March 15
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: 32°F and below

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: "Summer months" (no specific dates given)
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria 98°F and above

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • No
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • None
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Hawaii

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • No

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • No

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • No
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • No
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Idaho

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: December 1 - February 28
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: 32°F and below

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • No

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: "No utility can shut off service is you provide the utility with a certificate from your doctor or public health official with medical training, stating that a serious illness or medical emergency exists or could be created for any permanent member of your household if your service is shut off."
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • No
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Illinois

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: December 1 - March 31
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: 32°F and below

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: Summer (no specific dates indicated)
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: 95°F and above

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • No
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • No
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Indiana

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: December 1 - March 15
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • No

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • No

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: "The utility must postpone a disconnection for 10 days if you provide a medical statement from a licensed doctor or a public health official."
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • No
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Iowa

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: November 1 - April 1
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: 20°F or below

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • No

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: "If a permanent resident of a household has a serious health issue, electric, natural gas, and telephone utility disconnection can be postponed for 30 days. However, the utility may require a statement of health from a physician or a public health official."
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • No
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Kansas

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: November 1 - March 31
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: 35°F or below

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • No

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: "Discontinuance would be especially dangerous to the health of the customer, resident member of the customer's family or other permanent resident of the premises where service is rendered."
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • No
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Kentucky

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • No

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • No

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: "Presentation of medical certificate to stop interruption of service."
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • No
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Louisiana

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: 32°F and below

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: When the national weather service issues a heat warning in the summer.

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • No
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • No
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Maine

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: November 15 - April 15
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • No

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • No

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: "Basic service is required for residential customers when a medical emergency necessitates a continuation of service."
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • No
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Maryland

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: November 1 - March 31
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: 32°F and below

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria 95°F and above

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: "A gas and/or electric utility may not terminate service to occupants of residential buildings for nonpayment of bills unless the utility first certifies to the Commission by an affidavit, filed at least 24 hours before the termination, that the termination does not constitute a threat to the life or health of the residential occupants."
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • No
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Massachusetts

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: November 15 - March 15
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • No

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • No

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: "If you are experiencing financial hardship and one of the following applies, your electric or gas cannot be shut off without permission from the DPU: You, or someone in your home, is seriously ill[...]"
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • No
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Michigan

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: November 1 - March 31
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • No

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • No

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: "If a customer has an ongoing medical condition where the loss of utility service would be immediately life threatening, a utility must restore service or refrain from shutoff of service for nonpayment."
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • No
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Minnesota

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: October 1 - April 30
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • No

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • No

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: "If the loss of utility service could lead to a medical emergency in your home, you should advise the utility of your medical condition. Ask the utility if it has special paperwork for you to fill out to exercise your rights under this law. You should be prepared to provide the utility with a note from a medical professional explaining your medical condition and how it would be affected or how an emergency could arise with the loss of service."
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • No
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Mississippi

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: December 1 - March 31
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: No disconnects of electric or natural gas on days where a freeze warning is in effect.

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: No electric disconnects when there is an excessive heat warning.

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: "[Sixty] day disconnect extension with a written note from a medical doctor that certifies that disconnection would create a life threatening situation."
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • No
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Missouri

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: November 1 - March 31
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: 32°F and below

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: 105°F and above

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: "Utilities must postpone shut off for up to 21 days if the shut off would aggravate an existing medical emergency."
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • Cold Weather Rule: "Customer must be a registered low income elderly or disabled customer and must enter a payment plan."
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Montana

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: November 1 - April 1
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • No

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • No

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: 
    • No disconnects with a doctor's note confirming risk to health
    • All shutoff restrictions are based on need criteria, no general disconnect moratorium, but all shutoffs must be approved during winter months.
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • "All disconnects must be approved by PSC, an no houses below federal poverty guidelines, public assistance households, or elderly/handicapped households will be disconnected."
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Nebraska

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • No

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • No

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: "Sick or disabled customers may get a one-time 30-day extension with a doctor's note."
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • "All households get a 30-day extension of shutoff in winter beyond normal shutoff time period."
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Nevada

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: The temperatures at which service cannot be disconnected depend on the region within the state and if the customer is elderly disabled.
    • In northern Nevada (Sierra Pacific Power Company):
      • Elderly or disabled - 20°F or lower
      • Nonelderly/disabled - 15°F or lower
    • In southern Nevada (Nevada Power Company):
      • Elderly/disabled and living in a mobile home built before Jan 1, 2000: 20°F or lower
      • Elderly/disabled NOT living in a mobile home built before Jan 1, 2000: 20°F or lower
      • Nonelderly/disabled - 15°F or lower

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: The temperatures at which service cannot be disconnected depend on the region within the state and if the customer is elderly disabled.
    • In northern Nevada (Sierra Pacific Power Company):
      • Elderly or disabled - 95°F or higher
      • Nonelderly/disabled - 105°F or higher
    • In southern Nevada (Nevada Power Company):
      • Elderly/disabled and living in a mobile home built before Jan 1, 2000: 95°F or higher
      • Elderly/disabled NOT living in a mobile home built before Jan 1, 2000: 103°F or higher
      • Nonelderly/disabled - 05°F or higher

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: Disconnection delayed for 30 days with medical emergency
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • No
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

New Hampshire

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: November 15 - March 31
    • During this time period PUC approval is needed to shut off elderly age 65 or older and customers with known financial hardship.
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • No

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • No

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: Written certification from a doctor prevents shutoff as long as customer enters into a payment plan, applies for 60 days and can be renewed indefinitely.
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • No
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

New Jersey

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: November 15 - March 15: Disconnections are restricted for households receiving Lifeline, LIHEAP, TANF, SSI, PAAD or GA or households unable to pay overdue amounts because of unemployment, medical expenses, or recent death of a spouse.
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: 32°F or below

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: 90°F or above

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: Disconnection delayed for up to three months if physician certifies that health of household member would be adversely affected. Customer must enter into a payment plan. 
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • Customers eligible for the Winter Termination Protection Program are placed on a budget plan and cannot be disconnected as long as they make good faith payments.
  • During the heating season, a utility may not ask for a security deposit. 
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

New Mexico

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: November 15 - March 15
    • No disconnections for households that meet LIHEAP eligibility guidelines
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • No

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • No

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • No
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • No
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

New York

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: November 1 - April 15
    • During this time-period utilities must make a special effort to determine if shutting heat off will cause health and safety issues.
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • No

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • No

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: If elderly, blind, or disabled, extra contact attempts must be made before shutoff.
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • No
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

North Carolina

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: November 1 - March 31
    • No disconnects during this period for elderly, disabled, and customers eligible for the energy Crisis Assistance Program. Must agree to payment plan unless unable to pay for payment plan.
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • No

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • No

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: No disconnects for the elderly in winter
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • No
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

North Dakota

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • No

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • No

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • No
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • Only protection(s) are the ability for customers to enter into a payment plan
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Ohio

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: November 1 - April 15
    • Annual Winter Reconnect Order - between November 1 - April 15 customers can have their service restored or a disconnect prevented by paying no more than $175 and entering a payment plan.
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • No

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • No

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria:  Thirty-day shutoff delay with doctor's note; doctor's note can also restore service within 21 days of shutoff and may be renewed up to three times within 12 months. 
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • No
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Oklahoma

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: No disconnects when forecast to be under 32°F

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: No disconnects when forecast to be over 101°F

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria:  Thirty-day shutoff delay with doctor's note of life-threatening situation
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • No
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Oregon

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: No disconnects when forecast is 32°F or below

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • No

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: No disconnects during wildfire evacuations or on days where the air quality index is 100 or greater

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: Disconnection may be delayed by up to 6 months with a doctor’s note certifying a life threatening situation and may be renewed at the end of 6 months.
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • No
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Pennsylvania

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: December 1 - March 31
    • No disconnections during this time for customers at or below 250% of Federal Poverty Level, 150% for one specific utility.
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • No

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • No

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: 30-day shutoff delay with doctors note, may be renewed twice.
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • Note: Pennsylvania will be renewing this act in 2024 which may change rules
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Rhode Island

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: November 1 - April 15
    • No disconnects for customers that are unemployed, elderly or handicapped, LIHEAP recipients, seriously ill, or living with an infant under 2 years of age and facing financial hardship.
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • No

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: No disconnects for any customers during a heat advisory or excessive heat warning

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: 21 day disconnect delay if a household member is seriously ill, which may be extended.
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • No
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

South Carolina

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • No

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • No

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • No
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • No
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

South Dakota

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • No

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • No

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: 30-day delay with doctors note.
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • Only protections are a 30-day delay on disconnect in winter.
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Tennessee

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • No

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • No

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • See Additional Disconnect Policy Information below

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • No
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • Disconnect procedures in extreme weather are determined by each utility separately but must be approved by the PSC. 
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Texas

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: No disconnects when temperature is under 32°F

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria:No disconnects when a heat advisory is in effect or has been in effect within the last 2 days.

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: No disconnections when it will cause a resident to become seriously ill or more seriously ill, lasts up to 63 days and can be renewed.
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • No
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Utah

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: November 15 - March 15
    • Applicant must have applied for utility assistance, must have a termination notice, and must meed at least one of the following requirements: qualify for HEAT assistance, suffered a medical emergency, loss of employment, 50% or greater drop in income
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • No

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • No

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: 30-day disconnect delay if detrimental to health, must have physician certification.
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • No
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Vermont

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: No disconnects when 10 degrees or lower, no disconnects for the elderly when below 32°F.

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • No

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: 30-day disconnect delay if detrimental to health, must have physician certification, can be used for up to 3 thirty day periods within a year.
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • No disconnects if customer owes less than $50.
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Virginia

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • No

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • No

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: Customers can file a Serious Medical Condition Certification Form to delay termination of service for 30-60 days
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • No
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Washington

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: November 15 - March 15
    • Protection for customers who qualify or apply for energy assistance and enter payment plan
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • No

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: No disconnections on days for which the national weather service has issued a heat-related alert for the area in which the customer resides. 

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: Medical emergency can delay disconnection for up to 60 days with one renewal
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • Each utility must set its own temperature criteria for cold weather disconnect moratoriums
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

West Virginia

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • No

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • No

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • No
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • Only protections are that 3 additional contact attempts must be made before disconnection in winter months and when a medical condition is present.
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Wisconsin

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: November 1 - April 15
    • No disconnections for customers that are below 250% of Federal Poverty Level, or with elderly, disabled, sick, or infants in home.
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • No

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: No disconnects when a heat advisory, heat warning, or heat emergency issued by the national weather service is in effect.

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: Services must be reconnected during extreme heat events if a doctor confirms there is a medical issue in the household that will be aggravated by the heat
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • No
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)
 
   

Wyoming

Cold Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Colder Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Colder Temperatures?
 
  • Yes
  • Criteria: No disconnections when is forecast to be under 32 degrees in next 48 hours

Hot Weather Policies
  Date-based Protections During Hotter Months?
 
  • No
  Temperature-based Protections During Hotter Temperatures?
 
  • No

Extreme Weather Protection Policies
 
  • No

Vulnerable Population Policies
 
  • No
 

Additional Disconnect Policy Information
 
  • No
 

Resources for Consumers
 
 

Policy Information Source(s)