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Ameren Missouri has disconnected more than 100,000 households that were behind on their bills in the past year. Advocates say Missouri laws need to change to better protect people in extreme heat.

The Missouri electric utility said it would not disconnect customers for nonpayment for 60 days.

U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley and St. Louis Mayor Cara Spencer say they’re hoping that the federal government can act quickly and that the White House will approve a major disaster declaration.

The death toll from the storms remains at five individuals, ranging in age from 32 to 82 years old, city officials said during a briefing Saturday evening.

Missouri regulators approved an increase for Ameren’s electric rates. Bills will go up by about 12% starting in June.

The bill is made up of dozens of policy changes governing how utilities operate in Missouri.

The bill has dozens of policy changes that affect how utility companies are allowed to operate and charge customers in Missouri.

Ameren Missouri announced plans to upgrade its grid and build new power plants to meet an anticipated increase in demand from companies moving to the state.

The 15% rate hike would bring in about $446 million for Ameren Missouri if it's approved by state regulators.

The electric utility is asking Missouri regulators to approve a 15% increase in rates, or about $17 more a month on average. Customers can share feedback on the raise at upcoming public hearings.