The amended rule will let customers pay only half their overdue bills instead of 80%, in order to regain service.

"The new rule will allow customers who have been cut off to get their utility service restored for the lesser of 50% of the bills that they owe, or $500," said the PSC's Jeff Davis.

And, the rule really means something when wallets are empty and gloves, scarfs and coats aren't enough to keep residents warm.

The Missouri Public Counsel's office is responsible for the rule change. As an advocate for Missouri consumers, Lewis Mills saw the need for more help this winter.

"Early in the fall, it became clear that, in the wake of the two hurricanes in the Gulf and because of other reasons, natural gas prices were extremely high and likely to remain high throughout the winter," Mills explained. "We realized that that was going to cause a real hardship on a lot of Missouri customers." 

The new rule takes effect Dec. 26.

If you have problems paying your utility bills, contact your utility to work out a payment plan under the rule. You can also call the PSC Consumer Helpline for free at 1-800-392-4211.

Reported by Heather Rochelle