A change to the Cold Weather Rule, meant to keep the heat on for poor Missourians this winter, has been approved by the Public Service Commission. And the PSC has delayed the filing of its action in the hope that that will keep utilities from going to court to block its action. PSC Chairman Jeff Davis readily acknowledges that he worries a legal challenge could tie up the issue in court for the remainder of the winter. The emergency amendment to the Cold Weather Rule will provide easier terms for reconnection once heat has been shut off for non-payment. The amount needed up front will be less, late fees will be reduced and the monthly payment required will be less. Utilities complain that the change will add to the bad debt they must carry with no recourse to recoup their money.
