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Illinois winter disconnection rule in effect through March
Chicago, Il – The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) is reminding customers that the state’s winter weather rule is in effect from December 1 – March 31. The winter weather rule limits utilities from disconnecting eligible customers who use electric or gas as their primary source of home heating.
“Illinois winters are known for frigid temperatures and frequent snowfall. The winter weather rule protects customers who might otherwise struggle to stay warm during the coldest months of the year,” said ICC Chairman Doug Scott.
The winter weather rule protects residential customers from disconnections when temperatures are forecasted to be at or below 32 F, and on days preceding holidays and weekends when the forecast is expected to drop to freezing.
Residential customers or master-metered apartment buildings who used gas or electricity as the primary source of space heating equipment during the previous winter cannot be disconnected for non-payment unless: the utility has offered the customer a Deferred Payment Agreement (DPA) with a maximum down payment of 10 percent; provided the customer with contact information for public and private aid agencies; the customer refused to enter a DPA; and all disconnection notices provisions have been met.
To protect Illinoisans during dangerous cold, Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP) participants; electric space heating customers; and military personnel and veterans cannot be disconnected if they fall behind on their utility bills. The rule excludes disconnections related to theft, tampering, or safety.
Households struggling to pay their utility bills are encouraged to apply for LIHEAP annually.
Customers with past due balances should contact their utility to enroll in a DPA. Customers whose electric or gas service has already been disconnected should contact their utility directly to see if they qualify for reconnection at less than the full amount owed.
Ameren, Nicor, North Shore, and Peoples Gas natural gas customers and ComEd electric customers who qualify for LIHEAP or whose incomes are at or below 300 percent of the federal poverty level are eligible for a monthly discount on their bills through the state’s low-income discount rates.
Enrollment in the above programs is free of charge, and customers can access LIHEAP benefits regardless of immigration status.
Contact the ICC’s Consumer Services Division at 1-800-524-0795 for further guidance or to file a complaint against a utility.
The Massac County Christmas Light Trail
The centerpiece of our holiday celebrations this month is the Massac County Christmas Light Trail!
What it is: This is a county-wide celebration where local residents and businesses light up their homes and storefronts for all to enjoy. It’s a wonderful way to experience the festive spirit from the warmth of your car.
When to See It: The trail is running every night through December 31st, with participants encouraged to keep their dazzling displays on until at least 9:00 PM each evening.
Find the Map: You can find the official map and the curated festive playlist to enhance your drive by visiting the Massac County Christmas Light Trail Facebook page. There are QR codes and clickable links available there!
Cast Your Vote: Don’t forget, voting is currently underway to select the Massac County Christmas Light Trail Grand Champion! Check the organizers’ social media for details on how to weigh in and pick your favorite.
Give Back on the Trail: Food Drive
While you’re enjoying the lights, you can also support a great cause!
We’ve confirmed that one of the participating homes on the Christmas Light Trail is hosting a food drive drop-off to benefit those in need right here in Massac County.
December 12th-14th and 19th-21st at 973 Country Club Rd
We’re excited to welcome everyone to experience the magic of the Christmas Light Trail! There will be plenty of photo opportunities, including a cozy spot in Santa’s sleigh, a visit to the elf in the candy cane forest, and a snapshot with our giant teddy bear.
**Parking Information:** Please park in the large gravel lot next to the house, which is located about two driveways down.
Bring your family, friends, and little ones for a delightful holiday stroll. We can’t wait to see you out enjoying the lights and spreading some Christmas cheer!
WMOK News: The New Illinois Laws – Part 10 – Health-First Policy: New Pilot Program Allows Unemployment for Mental Health Disability
Health-First Policy: New Pilot Program Allows Unemployment for Mental Health Disability
METROPOLIS, IL – In our next report, we look at a new pilot program that recognizes mental health as a valid reason for voluntarily leaving a job. Effective January 1, 2026, House Bill 3200 creates a temporary program allowing individuals who resign due to a certified mental health disability to be eligible for unemployment insurance benefits.
This law acknowledges that mental health conditions can be just as debilitating as physical illnesses, making continued employment impossible.
Key Requirements of the Mental Health Unemployment Pilot
This program is a three-year pilot, meaning it is set to expire unless extended by the legislature, and it has specific, strict criteria for eligibility.
1. Requirement for Certification
The most critical requirement is documentation. To qualify, the individual must provide the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) with a certification from a licensed mental health professional that clearly states:
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The claimant has a mental health disability.
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The disability necessitated the individual’s separation from employment.
2. Voluntary Separation Only
This program applies only to individuals who voluntarily left their job. It does not apply to those who were discharged or laid off. The separation must be directly attributable to the certified mental health disability.
3. Duration and Scope
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Three-Year Limit: As a pilot program, it will run for three years to allow the state to assess its feasibility, costs, and effectiveness before considering permanent implementation.
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Benefits: If approved, the claimant is entitled to the standard unemployment insurance benefits as defined by existing state law.
4. Employer Protections
While the program provides a crucial safety net for workers, it also attempts to balance employer interests:
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Prohibited from Charging: Unemployment benefits paid under this pilot program shall not be charged against the experience rating accounts of the separating employer. This means the employer’s future unemployment tax rates will not increase due to claims made under this specific mental health provision.
A Shift in Policy
Historically, resigning from a job for “personal reasons”—including mental health—often disqualified claimants from receiving unemployment benefits, as they were not considered “unemployed through no fault of their own.” This pilot program represents a significant public policy shift, treating serious mental health conditions with the same consideration as physical disabilities when it comes to the loss of employment.
Individuals in Illinois who are considering leaving their jobs due to a mental health crisis should consult with a licensed mental health professional first and then contact the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) to understand the precise requirements for filing a claim under HB 3200.
WMOK Community Events Listing
Send YOUR Event details, graphics and information to:
Text – 618-524-9209
E-mail – WMOKnews@frontier.com
Cookie Exchange Week: 15-19
Wednesday, December 17, 2025
National Wright Brothers Day is celebrated annually on December 17th to commemorate the first successful sustained and controlled powered flight by the Wright brothers in 1903 at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. The day honors Orville and Wilbur Wright’s innovation and encourages the public to observe the achievements of aviation through ceremonies and activities
Join us for our upcoming coalition meeting to collaborate, share updates, and work toward a drug-free community. At this Meeting we will also be revisiting all the things we did in the past year! Whether you’re a long-time member or new to the group, your voice matters! We’ll discuss current initiatives, upcoming events, and ways you can get involved or contribute.
Thursday, December 18, 2025
12P – The Rotary Club of Metropolis meets every Thursday at Community Christian Church, 1150 Country Club Rd.
Friday, December 19, 2025
Recreation Time for Needle Crafters
– Nifty Needles Meets from 4:30-5:30 on Friday Afternoons at the Metropolis Public Library
For more information about the Nifty Needles Group, stop by the library or call 618-524-4312.
Christmas on the Square in Vienna is set to take place on December 19 from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. This enchanting community event, hosted by the Revive Vienna Committee, promises an evening filled with festive activities for all ages. Attendees can enjoy horse and carriage rides, capture special moments with Santa, and meet Miss Daisy the Cow.
The event features a delightful candy cane hunt, caroling, and children’s Christmas stories, along with tasty treats like chili, hot dogs, and hot chocolate. There will also be gifts and drawings geared towards the kids, along with a variety of fun activities. Join us in making this a memorable night for the entire family as we celebrate the joyous holiday season in the heart of Vienna!
Saturday, December 20, 2025
Sunday, December 21, 2025
WMOK's Coffee Break Program:
We invite you to text
questions and topics for our guests to
618-524-9209
Now taking orders for engraved bricks, pavers & arrays to be placed on the Walkway of the Massac County WWII Memorial
As the holiday season approaches, an opportunity arises to honor the brave men and women who served during World War II. The Heroes of Massac Endeavors are now accepting orders for engraved bricks, pavers, and arrays to be installed on the Walkway of the Massac County WWII Memorial. This initiative not only commemorates the sacrifices made by local heroes but also enhances the community’s dedication to remembering its history.
The memorial, which features a life-sized statue of Pvt. John Marvin Steele, pays tribute to the WWII casualties from Massac County. It tells the story of Steele’s historic D-day landing on the Church in Sainte-Mere-Eglise, while the back of the memorial honors TSgt. William “Luster” Leukering and shares tales of Massac soldiers who fought bravely during the conflict.
Engraved bricks, pavers, and arrays are available for purchase, providing a unique way to memorialize loved ones or organizations. Companies and groups can also have their logos included on pavers or arrays. The arrays come in sets of 4, 6, or 9 pavers, adding an impactful display to the memorial’s walkway.
For those interested in showing their support, orders can be placed online or by picking up an order form at Creations Florist at 600 Market in Metropolis or from a member of the Heroes of Massac Endeavors board.
In addition to the engraved items, commemorative T-shirts are available for purchase. The “Marvin Map” design features Pvt. John Marvin Steele, the Church at Sainte-Mere-Eglise, WWII paratroopers, and a map of Normandy, while the “Steele Wings” shirt showcases the US Parachutist Badge along with Steele’s military company and regiment. Another option, “The Longest Day,” commemorates June 6, 1944. These shirts come in various adult sizes and can be acquired at Creations Florist & Gifts, located at 600 Ferry St. in Metropolis.
This holiday season, take the opportunity to honor someone special by contributing to this meaningful cause.
HEROES OF MASSAC ENDEAVORS
https://heroesofmassacendeavors.org
Massac Memorial Hospital Auxiliary Fundraiser - Well over $2000 in Prizes
WMOK School and Sports News
Send your Job and Career Listings to WMOK
Text the information to 618-524-9209
Links to Local Employers:
Massac Memorial Hospital
MMH is hiring! Join a team that puts patients first and supports the health of our community every day. Compassion. Excellance. Local Care. Apply today at www.massachealth.org/careers or by scanning the QR code.
Rural Health, Inc.
Metropolis Big John
Shawnee Community College
City of Metropolis
Southern Seven Health Department
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