The President signed an executive order stating that it was U.S. policy to minimize evictions and foreclosures. The order does not reinstate the federal eviction moratorium that expired last month or fund the billions in assistance that may be needed to help people already behind on their rent.

The plan related to housing only makes suggestions to federal agencies but does not halt evictions nationally. The order calls on the Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to “consider” whether it was necessary to temporarily halt evictions. The Treasury Department and the Department of Housing and Urban Development “shall identify” federal funds to provide temporary assistance to renters and homeowners “who, as a result of the financial hardships caused by the pandemic, are struggling to meet their monthly rental or mortgage obligations,” the order says.

National Low Income Housing Coalition statement: “This executive order offers merely false hope, and risks increased confusion and chaos at a time when renters need assurance that they will not be kicked out of their homes.”

The following questions are not answered: How many renters covered? How long will moratorium last? Any $ for a rental assistance fund to cover back rent?

BOTTOM LINE

– No extension of eviction moratorium; HHS & CDC will consider if it’s necessary
– No $ for rental assistance; HUD, Treasury “shall identify” available federal funds
– Otherwise, for average renter, not much has changed

If HHS and CDC determine an eviction moratorium is necessary, what power do they have to act on it? Would Congress still have to step in and act?

Democrats have supported extending the moratorium and have also urged emergency rental assistance. Democrats had also conceded that the President has the power to extend the eviction moratorium. However, the President did not do so.