AUGUSTA (AP) – As of Wednesday, Maine’s electric and gas utilities are no longer subject to winter rules that bar them from disconnecting customers without express permission from state officials.

The Public Utilities Commission announced Thursday that utilities can go ahead with disconnections, but must still follow rules regarding issuance of notices and other procedures.

PUC Chairwoman Sharon Reishus advised consumers that there are rules in place throughout the year to help those who make good-faith efforts to pay their bills avoid being disconnected.

The winter rules go back into effect Nov. 15.

AP-ES-04-09-09 1546EDT