Introduction of the Protecting Renters From Evictions and Fees Act

Floor Speech

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Mr. GARCIA of Illinois. Madam Speaker, I rise today to introduce the Protecting Renters from Evictions and Fees Act along with my colleague, Barbara Lee.

Our country is facing an unprecedented pandemic and an economic crisis greater than we've seen in generations. I'm introducing this bill which will prohibit the eviction of tenants for failure to pay rent or additional fees because if people across the country are forced out of their homes then both of the crises we face will deepen.

More than half of my constituents in Chicago rent their homes. Businesses in my district have closed or reduced hours, and some of them won't reopen again. My district is a working class, immigrant district, and far too many of my neighbors have to choose between putting food on the table and paying rent. Many of them can't access some of the benefits that Congress passed because they don't have sufficient documentation. They should not have to worry about losing their home during a public health crisis.

I am introducing this bill today so that they don't have to. I urge this body to advance this legislation.

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