During the COVID-19 pandemic state, federal, and local governments have been doing their part in making sure that those who have been affected the most by this pandemic don't suffer long term damage because of its economic results. That's why you've seen adjustments in unemployment stipends, federal stimulus checks, and even restrictions on landlords regarding eviction for non-payment of rent.

Many of those safeguards could be falling by the wayside in the coming weeks and this has created a sense of urgency among housing advocates in the state. Camille Manning-Broome is the CEO of the Center for Planning Excellence. Her organization estimates that between 69,000 and 120,000 Louisiana workers who rent could be at risk once COVID benefits come to an end.

Among the parishes listed as most vulnerable in the next six months are Lafayette, Calcasieu, Orleans, Jefferson, East Baton Rouge, Caddo, Ouachita, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, and Bossier. Louisiana is listed as the third-highest risk state nationally as far as evictions are concerned.

Organizations that advocate for those in the state who need affordable housing are calling on Louisiana's Congressional Delegation to back the 100 billion dollar Emergency Rental Assistance and Rental Market Stabilization Act of 2020. Provisions in these pieces of legislation should allow renters and landlords to work through this difficult economic time without the need for evictions.

 

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