Gov. Andy Beshear signed an executive order Monday to extend the ban on cutting off utility services for nonpayment to Nov. 6, but announced additional steps to help Kentuckians behind on their bills.
The Kentucky Public Service Commission previously announced it was ending its moratorium on disconnections for nonpayment for the utilities it regulates today.
Though the bans on disconnects will end, late fees will still be waived on utility bills for residential customers through Dec. 31, 2020. Customers will still be responsible for any missed payments at some point.
Behear’s executive order Monday designates $15 million in federal COVID-19 relief funds for the Healthy at Home Utility Relief Fund, which will provide relief for Kentuckians at risk of natural gas, water, wastewater or electric service disconnection.
The order will also require utilities to create a payment plan for residential customers that runs no less than six months.
“Customers will apply through Community Action of Kentucky, but the funds will go directly to the utility. Community Action administers the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program or LIHEAP and is accustomed to assisting Kentuckians in paying their utility bills,” Beshear said. “While this is a difficult time for many Kentuckians, this is another resource for our families.”
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