Chambana Sun

State Representative Brandun Schweizer addressed the issue of utility disconnection during cold months in a Facebook post dated December 5. He said, "Vulnerable households may not be disconnected from their utilities during cold months, thanks to Illinois' winter weather rule in effect until March 31st."

"Vulnerable households may not be disconnected from their utilities during cold months, thanks to Illinois' winter weather rule in effect until March 31," said Schweizer, according to Facebook.

According to Schweizer's post, he shared a report from radio station 97.7 WRAM announcing that Illinois’ Winter Weather Rule is currently active. Doug Scott, chair of the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC), spoke to the station about the implications of this rule for residents. "Frigid winters are a given in Illinois. The state’s winter weather rule offers peace-of-mind for individuals and families who might otherwise be struggling to stay warm during the coldest months of the year," Scott said.

Screenshot of State Rep. Brandun Schweizer's Dec. 5 Facebook post | State Representative Brandun Schweizer's Facebook page

The ICC oversees the provision of adequate, reliable, efficient, and safe utility services at minimal cost to citizens served by electric, natural gas, telecommunications, water, and sewer public utility companies.

The Winter Weather Rule stipulates that no electric or gas public utility shall disconnect service to any residential customer or master-metered apartment building for nonpayment where gas or electricity is used as the primary source of space heating equipment during December 1 through March 31 of the following year. This is according to the Administrative Code related to winter disconnection of residential heating services.

If a utility has offered a winter deferred payment arrangement (DPA) and information about assistance for utility bills but the customer has not entered into such an arrangement, it must notify them or an adult at the residence about potential disconnection for nonpayment. Customers can still enter a deferred payment program to avoid disconnection after being informed. Only after providing time for customers to arrange payments or seek assistance may utilities pursue disconnection.

Schweizer was appointed to fill a vacancy in the 104th House District following Representative Mike Marron's retirement. A retired US Marine Corps Master Sergeant, Schweizer worked as a code enforcement inspector in Danville. He resides there with his family and founded Tiny Troops Soccer, which teaches soccer basics to young children on military bases.