MADISON - Homes in Wisconsin will not be disconnected from water, electric or natural gas services for unpaid bills during Gov. Tony Evers' public health emergency period under an order from the state board that regulates utilities in Wisconsin.

The order comes a day after Evers declared a public health emergency in Wisconsin amid the spread of coronavirus, a deadly disease that has killed thousands globally and is spreading throughout the United States.

The Public Service Commission, which regulates utilities, also asked utility providers to reconnect any home that is disconnected currently.

"Once the public health emergency is lifted, the utility may disconnect service to a property that was reconnected during this period without further notice if an appropriate payment or payment arrangement has not been established," the commission said in a statement.

A key to preventing the spread of coronavirus is frequent washing and bathing, and staying indoors.

Wisconsin homes are currently not in danger of being disconnected due to overdue bills under a longstanding moratorium during winter months. That ban expires April 15, however.

Friday's order from the PSC extends the moratorium until the health emergency ends.

You can find out who your legislators are and how to contact them here.

Contact Molly Beck at molly.beck@jrn.com. Follow her on Twitter at @MollyBeck.