Atlanta Mayor to Halt Evictions - What does this mean?

Question

Keisha Lance Bottoms posted this on Facebook, but I'm not clear exactly what it means and what the implications are.  Does this only apply to the "partners" listed in the first paragraph?  Are there broader implications?  What are the unintended consequences here?

Matthew Nicklin · Answer

April 1st is going to be an interesting day indeed. I am seeing large landlords prepare statements etc that say they are waiving late fees or allowing tenants to delay rental payments till this all clears. I have not sent any formal communication to my tenants. I am going to play this by ear. If someone needs help I will address it with them individually.

As @Todd Ortscheid pointed out most courts are closed or running at a limited capacity. I know Cobb County is still taking online fillings from what I can tell but I would imagine court dates may not be assigned if the CDC is recommending no more than groups of 10 meet. We are in interesting times right now.

Todd Ortscheid · Answer

It doesn't have force of law, but it also doesn't really matter, because the courts are all closed down, anyway. Can't get a writ of possession if the courts are closed. Evictions are effectively in limbo until the courts open again.

Nicholas LaGatta · Answer

I agree, figured so much.  Looking at the Facebook comments, I think most people don't understand this will not apply to them unless they are housed in association with one of those partners.  As far as unintended consequences, I think this could falsely empower folks not to pay their rent, especially those who aren't really financially capable of making catch-up payments, hoping some government entity will bail them out.  Until we understand the full financial implications through the entire value-chain, I hope the city/state/feds are treading lightly until we have the full perspective.

Nicholas LaGatta · Answer

Original Facebook source:https://www.facebook.com/keisha.bottoms/