COVID-19 relief: tenancy: federal rental assistance.
The bill revises several sections of the Civil Code and the Code of Civil Procedure, focusing on tenancy issues. It not only extends certain protections against evictions for tenants experiencing financial hardship due to COVID-19 but also prevents landlords from selling or assigning unpaid rental debts accumulated due to the same circumstances. Furthermore, the legislation establishes a framework for potentially enhanced penalties against landlords who violate tenant rights related to utility service termination and other retaliatory actions, thereby shifting the legal landscape toward greater tenant protections.
Assembly Bill 832 aims to support tenants and landlords affected by the COVID-19 pandemic by enacting the COVID-19 Rental Housing Recovery Act. The bill requires that rental assistance provided to eligible households cover 100% of their monthly rent, which significantly increases the support available compared to prior levels. Moreover, it imposes restrictions on unlawful detainer actions, requiring landlords to demonstrate that they have sought rental assistance before pursuing eviction for unpaid rent that accrued during the pandemic hardship period.
Reactions to AB 832 are generally positive among tenant advocacy groups, who view the bill as a crucial measure to prevent mass homelessness and provide essential relief for those impacted by the pandemic. However, some landlords and property management groups argue that while the intent is commendable, the additional restrictions and requirements could have detrimental effects on their business operations and financial viability, showcasing a divide in sentiment based on stakeholder interests.
Notable points of contention include concerns from landlords regarding the extended timeline for eviction protections and the bureaucratic process involved in proving financial distress and applying for rental assistance. There is also apprehension about the sustainability of rental assistance programs and whether they will be adequately funded to meet the demands created by the economic fallout of the pandemic.