Clock is Ticking on California Eviction Moratorium

The clock is ticking on the statewide eviction ban, which expires on January 31. Governor Gavin Newsom and state lawmakers are trying to reach an agreement by then to protect vulnerable renters from being evicted during a pandemic, a move likely to further exacerbate the state’s homeless crisis.

Newsom, Senate President pro Tempore Toni Atkins and Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon recently issued a joint statement on the extension of the eviction moratorium: “We are announcing an agreement to extend the eviction moratorium in California through June 30, 2021, protecting tenants and small landlords from losing their housing as the nation continues to confront the pandemic. We are also moving forward as quickly as possible to deploy California’s share of the latest federal stimulus bill – ensuring that up to $2.6 billion in renter aid is administered quickly, equitably and accountably.”

These critically needed federal funds, targeted to the most at-risk households with unpaid back rent, will help tenants stay afloat during and after the pandemic. Income-qualified tenants and landlords can choose to receive direct rental assistance in exchange for forgiving prior rental debt, the statement indicates.

Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) says the relief program doesn’t go far enough. “In particular, I am concerned that the rent relief program will leave some tenants out and am also concerned about administrative rollout of rent relief, given California’s logistical problems during the pandemic (with things like unemployment benefits and vaccines). We must pass this proposal by end of week to avoid mass evictions, keep people stable in their homes, avoid a spike in homelessness and ensure people avoid massive rent debt. This proposal is a step toward the critical goals of housing stability and economic and health recovery.”

For comments, questions or concerns, please contact Lisa Brown