California’s Gov. Gavin Newsom issued an executive order Monday evening to help prevent evictions during the COVID-19 outbreak, giving local governments the authority to halt evictions for renters and homeowners, but stopping short of creating a statewide moratorium.

The order aims to slow foreclosures and help keep utilities running for residents affected by COVID-19, in a blanket fashion, and will be in effect through at least the end of May. It doesn’t mean renters won’t have to pay rent, but it could mean delayed payments for some. The order urges banks and financial institutions to stop foreclosures and evictions during the same time period.

In a prepared statement, Gov. Newsom said “Over the next few weeks, everyone will have to make sacrifices – but a place to live shouldn’t be one of them. I strongly encourage cities and counties take up this authority to protect Californians.”

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