The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) today adopted rules prohibiting non-municipal public water and
sewer utilities from disconnecting customers during extreme cold weather emergencies. The new rules mean those utilities cannot disconnect service or issue late fees for nonpayment of bills due during such emergencies,
including for bills previously due. Under the new rules, affected customers have a 30-day window to request
a payment schedule. All non-municipal water and sewer utilities are required to notify their customers of these new rules by January 31, 20-23.