The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reimposed an eviction ban on August 3, citing an increase in transmissions of the Delta variant. However, the high court ruled that this action would require the involvement of Congress to move forward and, in fact, overturned the CDC’s action. The court’s actions end protections for roughly 3.5 million people who indicated they would likely face eviction in the next two months.
Three justices dissented, citing the increase of COVID-19 was reason enough to keep the moratorium in place. The President had hoped the court would have allowed the ruling to stay in place, providing a more significant opportunity to distribute the $46.5 billion in rental assistance previously approved by Congress. However, despite an increase in households having received help, local governments have distributed only 11 percent, or a bit over $5 billion. Additionally, the administration has called on local and state governments like California, Maryland, and New Jersey, to implement individual moratoriums until more landlords and tenants can access these funds.
Consider: As a member mission or ministry, what have you done to prepare for a potential uptick of guests looking for shelter and more at your place?
If you or someone you know is looking for rental assistance, be sure to read our article on the Rental Assistance Finder from the White House Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships.