McClinton calls on legislature to pass proposals to protect homeowners, renters and small landlords

Rep. Joanna E. McClinton August 31, 2020 | 6:20 PM

With Gov. Tom Wolf's moratorium on foreclosures and evictions set to expire today, state Rep. Joanna McClinton is calling for immediate action on legislation to help protect homeowners, renters and small "mom and pop" landlords survive the COVID-19 pandemic.

"As the coronavirus continues, so do the struggles of countless families fighting financially to keep their heads above water. The governor's moratorium has allowed so many Pennsylvanians to keep a roof over their heads during this health crisis," said McClinton, D-Phila./Delaware. "As we return to Harrisburg tomorrow for legislative session, our top priority must be to extend this critical lifeline."

McClinton joined her House Democratic colleagues in unveiling legislation to extend the moratorium as well as other proposals to:

Expand and protect the Rent & Mortgage Assistance Program.

Allow tenants who fell behind on rent due to COVID-19-related job losses or slowdowns to get back to good payment standing by waiving late fees on payments.

Ensure low-income renters and homeowners in debt have qualified legal representation in disputes with landlords and management companies.

Make sure small "mom and pop" landlords who own, manage and, in many cases, live in smaller rental properties get full access to the Home Emergency Mortgage Assistance Program.

"As legislators, we have a responsibility to connect residents with the resources they need to make it through COVID-19 safely," McClinton explained. "These proposals are just another step in our efforts to put people first and prevent our most vulnerable neighbors from becoming homeless."