One of the key impacts of AB 81 is its amendments to the COVID-19 Tenant Relief Act, which allows tenants to remain protected from eviction provided they submit a declaration of financial distress. This ensures that landlords cannot proceed with eviction for nonpayment until the extended repayment period has concluded. Additionally, the bill mandates that landlords who violate eviction protections during this time face financial penalties. Moreover, the bill enhances the CalWORKs program by exempting federal pandemic unemployment assistance from being counted as income, thus broadening eligibility for aid.
Assembly Bill 81, also known as the COVID-19 Relief Act, was designed to provide extensive relief measures in response to the financial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill modifies existing laws related to evictions for tenants who cannot pay rent due to COVID-19-related financial distress, extending the timeline for repayment of rental debt from August 31, 2021, to August 31, 2022. It ensures that ordinances established by local authorities do not extend repayment beyond this date, thereby standardizing tenant protections across California and providing clarity during a challenging economic period.
The sentiment around AB 81 appears to be largely supportive among legislators and advocates focused on tenant protections and economic relief. Many view the bill as a necessary step to shield vulnerable populations from eviction and homelessness during a public health crisis. However, landlords and property owners have expressed concerns over the financial implications and the fairness of extended protections for tenants unable to pay rent, illustrating a divide between renter advocates and property owners.
Notable points of contention surrounding AB 81 involve the extent of tenant protections and the balance of interests between tenants and landlords. While proponents argue that the bill safeguards against mass evictions and promotes social stability, opponents caution that prolonged delays in evictions could lead to financial strain on landlords and diminish property management viability. Additionally, the lack of appropriation for counties administering the expanded duties tied to the CalWORKs program raises concerns about possible future complications related to funding and local administration.