HELENA — The Montana Public Service Commission is considering changing the rules for when electric service can be shut off for non-payment during the winter.
The proposed changes include shortening the winter moratorium, which currently runs from Nov. 1 through April 1.
Under the proposed changes, utilities would not be allowed to shut off service to anyone from Dec. 1 through February if the account has a delinquent balance of less than $200 or if a minimum payment of at least one-third of the overdue balance was made in the past 30 days. Power cannot be shut off during those months for customers over age 62, those who are disabled or are unable to pay their bills.
The PSC says the changes were suggested by administrators of energy assistance programs, who feel the current rules allow customers to get too far behind on their bills.