Stop Evictions in MO During Times of Crisis!

I urge you to oppose Missouri SB895 (Trent), HB1455 (Veit), HB1886 (Veit), HB2062 (Brown), and any similar bills which seek to limit the ability of local governments to impose eviction moratoriums during times of crisis. The proposed bills would prohibit cities, towns, and counties from issuing any order or ordinance that would prevent landlords from evicting tenants for any reason, including nonpayment of rent, even during a declared state of emergency. This would leave vulnerable residents without any protections, exacerbating the already dire situation that many Missourians are facing. Furthermore, the bill would likely be in conflict with the legal authority of local governments to protect public health and welfare. Under Missouri law, local governments have the power to enact ordinances that promote the general welfare of their communities. This includes the authority to impose eviction moratoriums during times of crisis to protect public health. In addition, the proposed bill may be in conflict with federal law. If these bills were to become law, they could lead to legal challenges and confusion, as local governments and landlords would be unsure of their legal obligations and rights regarding eviction proceedings. This could result in costly and time-consuming litigation that would further burden the court system and undermine the ability of local governments to protect public health and welfare. Therefore, I urge you to oppose these measures that would limit the ability of local governments to enact eviction moratoriums during times of crisis. By doing so, you will be helping to protect the health and well-being of vulnerable Missourians.