Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf called on the state Legislature to protect Pennsylvanians from eviction and foreclosure by temporarily extending the existing moratorium and fixing defects in Act 24 of 2020, which created a program to helps renters and owners.

In July, Gov. Wolf re-issued his executive order providing moratorium on eviction and foreclosure, which is set to expire on September 1. His hands are already tied up to do something on the issue since the Emergency Code prohibits further relief related to temporary housing.

Act 24 provides $150 million for rental assistance and $25 million for mortgage assistance.

The Pennsylvania Housing Finance (PHFA) is administering the program using funds the state received from the Federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act.  Pennsylvania received $3.9 billion under the federal law to help people who are economically suffering due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Under Act 24, the CARES Rent Relief Program (RRP) is limited to $750 per month assistance. Thus, it is helping fewer people than intended.

In a statement, GOV. Wolf said, “The General Assembly must act to fix these problems immediately to provide meaningful assistance to this vital sector of the economy and prevent the displacement of Pennsylvanians as we continue to fight the COVID-19 virus.”

Gov. Wolf wants Legislature to raise the $750 per month rental assistance

“The Legislature should raise the $750 a month payment to at least 130% of HUD limits which would actually assist landlords in higher-cost areas, lead to greater participation in the program and increase the number of tenants assisted,” added the Governor.

Furthermore, Gov. Wolf said, “The program should allow participants that need assistance to get rental assistance without being in arrears. Pennsylvanians should not have to forego food or medicine in order to remain current on rent and to be eligible for relief.

Gov. Wolf proposed additional funding to help struggling Pennsylvanians

The Governor’s legislative agenda in the fall included his proposal for an additional $100 million for the CARES RRP. Rental and mortgage assistance will continue in the form of a grant. The funds will be paid directly to landlords or property owners.

Additionally, Gov. Wolf is proposing $100 million to provide assistance to residents who will be subject to termination of public utility services when the current PUC moratorium is eventually lifted. The proposed funding will be divided between the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and a new emergency water/wastewater program administered by PENNVEST.

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