Wisconsin Plans to Lift Moratorium on Utility Disconnections

The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin reached a consensus to end the temporary moratorium on utility disconnections for nonpayment from July 25 as the state reopens, according to a June 11 press release.

The commission encourages customers facing difficulties to seek a payment plan or apply for energy assistance with the utilities, while ensuring most utility bills can be paid on time. Customers may still avoid disconnection if they have a medical condition or are infected with COVID-19.

The utilities will be allowed to send disconnection notices or charge customers for late payment fees on debts starting on July 15. The utilities will also be able to refuse service to a new customer who fails to provide documentation on proving identity and residency after July 25, and to require a cash deposit as a condition from July 31. While customers may still avoid disconnection if they have a medical condition or are infected with COVID-19.

On May 13, the Supreme Court struck down the Safer at Home order ending measures to curb the spread of the pandemic, but kept the moratorium in place.