America's power disconnection crisis: In 31 states, utilities can shut off electricity for nonpayment in a heat wave

Low-income residents are among those most likely to lose cooling in their homes because they can't pay their bills. Solidcolours/iStock/Getty Images Plus

Millions of Americans have already been sweltering through heat waves this summer, and forecasters warn of hot months ahead. July 3 and 4, 2023, were two of the hottest days, and possibly the hottest, on satellite record globally.

For people who struggle to afford air conditioning, the rising need for cooling is a growing crisis.