Fast-approaching Pa. eviction ban expiration has Pittsburgh lawmakers urging extension

PITTSBURGH — With Pennsylvania’s moratorium on evictions and foreclosures set to expire Monday, Pittsburgh lawmakers are involved in last-minute efforts to help keep people in their homes during the pandemic.

>>STORY: Wolf: Pennsylvania eviction moratorium to lapse Aug. 31

Lawmakers say it’s crucial that the moratorium be extended.

State representative Elizabeth Fiedler, as well as local representatives Summer Lee and Sara Innamorato are spearheading legislation calling for immediate action to stop mass evictions and foreclosures throughout the commonwealth.

The legislation would give Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf powers to put a moratorium on evictions and foreclosures and overrule a code in the state law stopping him from expanding the eviction ban again.

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Wolf has sent letters to the House and Senate urging them to temporarily extend the moratorium, which he extended in July. He’s now proposing an extra $100 million for the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency and CARES Rent Relief Program.

The PHFA has a program for people who need help. Renters can get up to $750 a month and $4,500 for six months. The funds are first come, first served. Under the PHFA, landlords must agree to not evict tenants until 60 days after that final payment. CLICK HERE for more information.

Jason Gottesman, a spokesperson for the state House GOP Caucus, released the following statement this week:

“Rather than make the decision to extend the eviction moratorium unilaterally as he has done in the past, the governor is passing the buck to the legislature to once again bail him out of his poor prior planning.”

Gov. Wolf extends moratorium on evictions, foreclosures Gov. Wolf extends moratorium on evictions, foreclosures

Cox Media Group