Newly issued eviction moratorium causing confusion

In an unprecedented move, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a temporary eviction moratorium through the end of the year.

The latest move offers renters some protection from losing their homes during the COVID-19 pandemic and a nationwide economic downturn.

While millions of Americans are potentially one missed paycheck away from homelessness, the CDC stated that there is an impending threat to public health.

The order was implemented to stop the spread of COVID-19 and prevent renters from becoming homeless or living in crowded quarters like shelters.

“This will help families who have been affected by the pandemic,” Melanie Shakarian said. “Keeping families stable and in housing during this public health crisis.”

But the new order is causing confusion and leading some to believe rent is excused through the rest of the year.

“However, it does not take away the obligation to pay rent,” Shakarian said. “You still need to pay your rent.”

Landlords like Dana Blair are potentially facing a tough predicament ahead.

“Ninety percent of landlords are usually mom and pop landlords,” Blair said. “They just have a couple of investment properties.”

The eviction moratorium lists criminal penalties for landlords who evict tenants from now until December 31, but it does not absolve renters from paying up.

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