Governor Extends Eviction Moratorium
Date postedJuly 1, 2020
Governor Extends Eviction Moratorium for Nonpayment of Rent through August 1, 2020
Last night, Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order 20-159. This extended Executive Order 20-94, which instituted the moratorium on evictions for nonpayment of rent due to the COVID-19 crisis until August 1, 2020. The previous moratorium was set to expire on July 1, 2020.
Prior to the issuance of Executive Order 20-159, FAA sent Governor DeSantis a letter outlining the apartment industry's concerns regarding a long-term eviction moratorium. The association stressed that these eviction protections are putting a strain on housing providers and being misused by individuals who have not been negatively impacted by COVID-19.
SWFAA is disappointed by the governor's decision to extend the moratorium because this extension will not address the root cause of housing insecurity, which is Floridians lack the financial resources to pay rent at this time. SWFAA will continue to advocate for rental relief, which is the only way to effectively address the needs of Florida renters. Members can rest assured that the association will continue to communicate the industry's concerns to the governor's office. In the meantime, members are encouraged to consult legal counsel for landlord/tenant legal guidance.
IMPORTANT REMINDERS:
- Effective and open communication with residents is crucial to avoiding an eviction. Review NAA's Best Practices for Rent Collection Amid COVID-19 and NAA's payment plan agreement resources.
- We know members are eager to assist residents in need. Rent relief funds are already available in several communities across the state. In addition, the governor recently allocated $250 million in CARES Act funds for housing relief. Specifically, $120 million will be disbursed to Florida counties in the coming weeks to provide mortgage and rent relief funds. FAA will communicate updates about the release of these funds once more information is available.
- Click here or contact Will Jaycox (william@faahq.org) for a list of the rent relief resources available in your area.