'We keep on just putting up sandbags': Advocates discuss the CDC eviction ban

While Idaho advocates say Friday’s federal moratorium on evictions was needed, they still feel a more permanent solution is required.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued the ban last week and it went into effect Friday. It lasts through Dec. 31, and bans evictions in many cases, if people can show they meet certain requirements, such as:

  • being at risk of homelessness
  • doubling up with another person
  • moving into crowded housing

The move is an effort on the CDC’s part to prevent the continued spread of the new coronavirus. To qualify for the moratorium, people at risk for evictions must fill out a form showing they meet the requirements.

Ali Rabe, executive director of Boise’s Jesse Tree, an eviction-prevention organization, said Tuesday more action is still needed.

“I think (the moratorium) is positive, but it is just a half-measure,” she said.

She said it’s important to remember that while the move prevents evictions from actually taking place, rent it still due.

“The moratorium doesn’t forgive rent unfortunately,” she said. “So people still owe rent, so if they fall behind that is going to affect them in January when the moratorium is lifted.”

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