Evictions Moratorium Extended

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recently re-extended the evictions moratorium. This extension will expire on October 3, 2021 and only applies in United States counties experiencing substantial and high levels of community transmission levels of SARS-CoV-2. (Click here for the declaration from August 3, 2021. Click here for the signed CDC order.)

Per the CDC, “The eviction moratorium allows additional time for rent relief to reach renters and to further increase vaccination rates. In the context of a pandemic, eviction moratoria—like quarantine, isolation, and social distancing—can be an effective public health measure utilized to prevent the spread of communicable disease. Eviction moratoria facilitate self-isolation and self-quarantine by people who become ill or who are at risk of transmitting COVID-19 by keeping people out of congregate settings and in their own homes.”

According to CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky: “The emergence of the delta variant has led to a rapid acceleration of community transmission in the United States, putting more Americans at increased risk, especially if they are unvaccinated. This moratorium is the right thing to do to keep people in their homes and out of congregate settings where COVID-19 spreads. It is imperative that public health authorities act quickly to mitigate such an increase of evictions, which could increase the likelihood of new spikes in SARS-CoV-2 transmission. Such mass evictions and the attendant public health consequences would be very difficult to reverse.”

It is important to note that residents who have been notified there is a case against them must still take action. This Act does not relieve parties of their obligations under Georgia law. If served with an eviction action, tenants must file an Answer in Court. If sent a hearing notice or summons, landlords and tenants must come to Court. Cobb County Magistrate Court has provided a FAQ page on their website to address specific questions pertaining to this evictions.