The year 2020 was a difficult year financially for many in Mississippi, especially those who rent a home or apartment. The federal moratorium on evictions saved many people from losing their home. However, their financial troubles often followed them well into 2021. While the moratorium ran out on July 31, leaving many renters at risk of eviction, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a new moratorium on evictions that could have a major impact on both renters and landlords.
The policy behind the new moratorium
The CDC recognized that mass evictions could worsen the current health crisis in the U.S. Evicted persons may have to live with relatives or friends or may have to reside in homeless shelters for a time. This crowding can easily spread illness across the U.S. Simply put, the CDC stated that evictions during this time pose a serious public health threat.
Details on the new eviction moratorium
The new moratorium on evictions is a bit different from the previous moratorium that began in 2020. The new moratorium is only applicable in counties that have a “substantial” or “high” transmission of COVID-19. In addition, while the new moratorium was not extended by Congress but instead was based on the Public Health Service Act, which gave the Department of Health and Human Services the authority to declare public health emergencies and act upon them. This opens up the new moratorium to potential legal challenges.
Learn more about real estate law
The new eviction moratorium has a major effect on both tenants and landlords in Mississippi. It is important to understand your legal rights and options if the new moratorium affects you. Our firm’s website may be a good starting point for those who are interested in learning more about real estate law in Mississippi.