The extended eviction ban will end later this Summer. On Thursday, the Biden Administration extended the order through July 31, 2021. The move will allow tenants behind on rent due to the COVID-19 pandemic time to catch up. Dr. Rochelle Walensky, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, says, “This is intended to be the final extension of the moratorium.”

The U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development reports more than 6.4 million American households were behind on rent at the end of March. HUD officials also told the Associated Press, nearly 1 million said eviction was very likely in two months, and 1.83 million said it was somewhat likely in the same period. As the extended eviction ban winds down, will this lead to mass evictions?

The Biden Administration has an “all hands on deck” multi-agency plan to prevent a flood of mass evictions. Moreover, the ban aimed to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Experts say preventing evictions kept people off the streets and out of shelters. However, the administration acknowledged the emergency pandemic protection would have to end at some point.

Extended Eviction Ban: Help for those still struggling

The announcement comes as many including the Treasury and Justice departments, voice concerns. In response to the extended eviction ban ending, the Treasury Department issued new guidance. They are encouraging state and local governments to streamline nearly $47 billion in emergency rental assistance funding. Associate Attorney General Vanita Gupta also voiced concerns over the extended eviction ban ending. In an open letter to state courts, Gupta writes, “eviction filings are expected to overwhelm courts across the country,” unless additional action is taken.

The Associate Attorney General encourages courts to pursue alternatives protecting both tenants and landlords. The Alabama Association of Relators is among a group that has been pushing lawmakers to resume evictions. Federal assistance is out there for those financially struggling because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Click here for more information on free rental assistance options as the extended eviction ban ends.