April 13, 2018 – Wisconsin’s winter moratorium protection will end Monday, April 16. Wisconsin’s Public Service Commission rule prohibits utilities from disconnecting utility customers between Nov. 1 and April 15. After April 15, utility companies are not required to provide service to customers who are behind on their bills.
Spokesperson Mathew Spencer says customers who are behind on their bills can find help.
"The Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program manages low income and public benefits programs and provides financial assistance to pay energy bills for qualifying households. You can visit their website at homeenergyplus.wi.gov."
If a customer receives LIHEAP assistance and receives a shutoff notice from their utility provider, they may find themselves in a crisis situation and qualify for crisis assistance. To learn more about crisis situations following moratorium shutoffs, check out this article from the LIHEAP Clearinghouse, “Crisis Following the Lifting of a Winter Moratorium.”
Customers are urged to contact their utility providers to make payment arrangements for minimum payment options to avoid losing utility service.
Moratorium end dates may vary from state to state. To learn more about disconnect policies in your state, visit the LIHEAP Clearinghouse.
Sources: media reports
