Yesterday, Governor Baker announced an extension of the eviction moratorium until October 17.
As stated in Mass Live: “The moratorium, originally set to expire Aug. 18, now remains in place until Oct. 17, and puts a pause on “non-essential” eviction cases against residential tenants and small businesses in housing court due to COVID-19. That includes no-cause evictions, those for non-payment of rent, those resulting from a foreclosure or for a cause other than allegations of criminal activity or lease violations threatening public safety.”
This is great news. And we continue full-steam ahead in these final weeks of the Legislative Session to enact the Network’s two priority bills: Act to Guarantee Housing Stability and Right to Counsel Pilot Program. Both of these bills address the post-moratorium urgency to protect tens of thousands of tenants from eviction, as well as homeowners from foreclosure and small landlords facing financial hardship. The passage of these bills in conjunction with the moratorium extension will allow for the readiness we need when October 17 comes.
TODAY, there are actions in Springfield and Boston in support of the Housing Stability bill. Big thanks to many in our Western MA delegation who are championing both this bill and Right to Counsel. They need to hear from us. Use this call-in tool to express your support.
Finally, if your organization is not already listed as a supporter, please sign on! For Housing Stability go here; for Right to Counsel bill here (and see RTC factsheet here).
NOW is the time to be heard and to act. Thanks for your partnership!
