June 26, 2020 – In response to the continuing economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, Governor Whitmer issued an executive Order extending existing restrictions on eviction proceedings until July 15, 2020, and directing creation of a statewide Eviction Diversion Program to help renters facing eviction due to loss of income arising from the COVID-19 lockdown. The Governor’s Order precedes what is expected to be enactment of Senate Bill 690, presented to the Governor for signature on June 23, 2020, and passed unanimously by both Houses of the Michigan legislature
Various counties across the State have had individual Eviction Diversion Programs in place for, in some cases, several years. This new program will be statewide and funded with federal money provided through the CARES Act.
Senate Bill 690 (2020) provides for a one-time appropriation of $60 million to create and implement a rental assistance program. A total of not more than $8 million is allocated for administration expenses, with the remaining funds to be used to pay for rent arrearages and rent subsidies to minimize evictions due to economic hardship arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. The funds will be administered in a rental assistance program that meets certain proposed statutory criteria.
For further information, or to discuss what this may mean for you, please contact Potestivo & Associates, P.C.