A rule that prevents utilities from disconnecting Kansas customers during extreme cold is in effect. The cold weather rule is enforced by the Kansas Corporation Commission and runs from this weekend through March 31.

The rule bars utilities from disconnecting electric or natural gas service for non payment when temperatures of 35 or lower are forecast for the following 24 hours.

Utility companies must offer customers a 12 month payment plan to maintain or re-establish service.

Shutoffs must be announced 24 hours in advance, and may be carried out only if the temperature is expected to top 35 degrees for 48 hours.