Gov. Ducey issues order to delay evictions for renters impacted by coronavirus pandemic

(Related Story) Families in fear of eviction as coronavirus economic crisis deepens

One West Valley family fears that without a job, they may be forced out of their rented home soon. FOX 10's Steve Nielsen filed this report on March 23, 2020.

PHOENIX - Arizona Governor Doug Ducey has issued an executive order on Wednesday that delays enforcement of eviction. orders for renters impacted by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

According to a statement released by the Governor's Office, the order applies to renters who are in quarantine due to COVID-19, or are facing economic hardship as a result of the pandemic. The executive order will remain in effect for 120 days.

“Nobody should be forced out of their home because of COVID-19,” said Gov. Ducey, in the statement.

In the statement, state officials note the actions align with recent actions by the Federal government, with the Department of Housing and Urban Development halting evictions for HUD-financed properties on March 18. On the same day, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac were directed by the Federal Housing Finance Agency to suspend foreclosures and evictions for at least 60 days.

State officials also say the Arizona Department of Housing has a "Save Our Home AZ" program that offers assistance to Arizonans struggling to make mortgage payments.

Response to executive order

The Arizona Multihousing Association has issued a statement on Gov. Ducey's executive order.

"No one wants to see sick or vulnerable individuals or families evicted in the midst of dealing with a serious health crisis," said President and CEO Courtney Gilstrap LeVinus, who also offered a note of caution in the same statement.

"At the same time as many apartment residents are struggling with income loss, Arizona property owners also are tightening their belts in a huge way. These businesses are working hard to meet their monthly obligations: make payroll, pay bank loans and mortgages, and pay their utilities, insurance costs and tax obligations," said LeVinus, in the statement.

The statement goes on to say that the organization will continue to work with Gov. Ducey, as well as other state and federal leaders, to find a comprehensive solution that will balance relief for renters with relief for property owners.

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