Research shows housing instability threatens to undermine the U.S. public health response to COVID-19.
Studies show at least 14 million people nationally are at risk of eviction during the pandemic including 1 million in Florida.
State lawmakers Monday proposed two bills to help renters in danger of being evicted during the coronavirus pandemic, as well as protect them post-eviction.
The first bill (SB 412 and HB 481) would add an additional step of mediation between landlords and tenants at risk of eviction. It would take into account past rental history, among other factors.
Sen. Darryl Rouson, a St. Petersburg Democrat and a co-sponsor of the bill, said housing insecurity is not a new issue, but one that s been exacerbated by the pandemic.
If an eviction notice is not court-ordered, it is considered illegal. Author: Ken Amaro Updated: 6:57 PM EST January 26, 2021
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. The pandemic is taking its toll on health and personal finances. Businesses are struggling, if not closing, and landlords are being feeling it in the gut as more and more tenants are unable to pay their rent. I ran into some financial difficulties, said Brian Jimerson. I was working when I moved in, but because of COVID-19 my job ceased.
Now Jimerson is facing an eviction. For non payment of rent, I have no lease. I am month-to-month, Jimerson said.