On March 19, 2020, I ordered courts to reschedule evictions and delay foreclosure proceedings through May 1, 2020. I issued this order understanding the negative impact the COVID-19 pandemic may have on institutions and individuals, and on the basis that increased housing insecurity and homelessness would worsen the threat posed by the illness.

It has come to my attention that some people are taking advantage of this devastating crisis by declining to make rent or mortgage payments. I want to remind people who are able to pay their rents and mortgages that they should continue to make their payments. My order did not relieve people of their personal responsibilities or financial obligations.

As of now, the moratorium on evictions and foreclosures is scheduled to end on May 1, 2020, and at that time any evictions or foreclosures may proceed. As we all work together to fight the spread of COVID-19, I will continue to monitor conditions and consider how to address evictions and foreclosure proceedings during this public health emergency.