Kansans who get behind on natural gas and electric bills will lose some protection against shutoffs this week.

The state’s Cold Weather Rule expires Thursday.

The rule is in effect every year from November through the following March.

It bars utilities regulated by the state from cutting off gas or electric service if temperatures are expected to drop below 35 degrees within the next 24 hours.

Disconnections may resume only if the temperature is forecast to top 35 degrees for the next 48 hours.

The rule also requires utilities to offer customers a 12-month plan to pay outstanding bills.