Letter to Ron DeSantis, Governor of Florida - Soto Calls on DeSantis to Expedite Housing Assistance Funding and Release Distribution Plan

Letter

Dear Governor DeSantis,

It was recently announced that federal funding will be distributed in Florida to assist families in
paying their rent and mortgages. As members of the Florida Congressional delegation, we urge
your full and fair consideration to expedite the release of this funding to assist those in need as
quickly as possible. Furthermore, we request a detailed plan that includes a timeline for
distribution, allocation formulas, an account of qualifying mortgages and rentals, and a
description of how to apply for these funds be publicly provided so we can better inform our
Florida constituents.

As you know, $240 million in federal CARES Act funding will be distributed to assist the
families hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic to pay rent and mortgages. Of this funding, $120
million will be assigned to counties for them to distribute to its residents for rental and
homeowner assistance programs. The other $120 million will be allocated to families living in
affordable housing units to help cover the costs of rent from July through December, with the
option to also apply to rent from April to June of this year.

The importance of this funding announcement cannot be understated. However, state officials
have not yet announced when these funds will be available or how people would be able to
apply. This is essential information for Florida families in need right now.

Accordingly, that is why we, as members of the Florida Congressional delegation, again urge
your full and fair consideration to expediate the distribution of this funding as well as the release
of a detailed plan to the public that includes a timeline for allocation formulas, explanation of
qualifying mortgages and rentals, and a description of how apply for this federal CARES Act
funding. We thank you for your time and attention to this issue.

Sincerely,