The House budget amendments that will address the unfolding eviction crisis will be voted on TODAY. We know after a sobering presentation at our Legislative Briefing on Nov. 9 the severe eviction threat facing thousands of tenants in our region alone (see the summary data here).
Please contact Leadership and your State Representative to urge support of the Network’s highest priorities:
Amendment #595 (lead sponsor Rep. Honan) to improve the RAFT program so this critical prevention resource can accomplish its intended goals; and
Amendment #585 (lead sponsor Rep. Hendricks) to create the critical housing stability we need to keep tenants safe through this pandemic. Advocates are now zeroing in on two provisions of #585 as the most critical: (1) COVID-19 DEFENSE TO EVICTION (protects people from homelessness while the RAFT program catches up to provide the needed help); and (2) HOMEOWNER PROTECTIONS (right now there are no more protections in state or federal law protecting MA homeowners from foreclosure)
PLEASE MAKE THREE CALLS or EMAILS:
House Speaker Robert DeLeo: 617-722-2500 or Robert.DeLeo@mahouse.gov
House Ways and Means Chair Aaron Michlewitz: 617-722-2990 or Aaron.M.Michlewitz@mahouse.gov
Contact YOUR Representative: find them here
The message: Support Amendment #595 and #585 to keep people safe in their homes and stop this public health catastrophe from becoming even more catastrophic.
