Stack Bill Protecting Renters From Eviction Clears Senate

The New Jersey Senate today approved legislation that would permit municipalities to prohibit the evictions of renters from their homes if they are unable to pay their rent during the coronavirus pandemic.

The measure, which unanimously cleared the upper house of the State Legislature 31-0, is sponsored by Senator Brian Stack (D-District 33), who also serves as Mayor of Union City, in the most densely populated county in the United States.

“One of the biggest lessons we learned during the Great Recession was the need to prevent mass homelessness in this state. New Jersey families that have been unable to afford rent during the COVID-19 pandemic do not deserve to be evicted and thrown onto the streets,” said Senator Stack.   “That is just a totally inhumane act during these trying times. Not only is it important we prevent people from becoming homeless, we also need people to stay inside so we can beat the pandemic.”

A municipality may temporarily ban evictions, due to late rent payment, during the declared Public Health Emergency issued by Governor Phil Murphy in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.  Based on the Governor’s Executive Order, the ban would end after the Public Health Emergency is declared over. However, landlords would be able to recover unpaid rent by filing an action with a county Superior Court.