Representative Sheila Cherfilus McCormick (D-FL) has introduced legislation protecting renters and homeowners in the wake of federally declared natural disasters.
Specifically, the Federal Disaster Housing Stability Act seeks to prevent renters from being evicted and homeowners from foreclosure during a natural disaster by imposing a 120-day moratorium on evictions for nonpayment of rent or other fees and a six-month moratorium on foreclosures.
"Floridians and Americans across the country are seeing the devastating impacts of natural disasters escalate year after year," Rep. Cherfilus McCormick said in a statement, adding, "Whether it's floods, hurricanes, or wildfires, families deserve time and stability to recover, without the added fear of losing their homes. This bill is a lifeline to ensure disaster doesn't become displacement. As we prepare for what experts say will be another severe hurricane season, this legislation is urgently needed. I urge my colleagues to support this common-sense measure to protect vulnerable families before the next disaster strikes."
The Florida Democrat previously questioned the Trump Administration's cuts to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and National Weather Service (NWS) in June with Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), saying, "Florida is one of the most hurricane-prone states in the nation. Our families, emergency responders, and local governments rely on NOAA and NWS for accurate, real-time information. Slashing these agencies just as storm season begins is both reckless and dangerous. I'm proud to stand with my Florida colleagues in demanding these job cuts be reversed immediately."
Rep. Wasserman Schultz called the cuts "cruel" and "short-sighted," adding that they "show a callous disregard for the safety of all Floridians."
In May, Representative Greg Steube (R-FL) and Senator Ashley Moody (R-FL) introduced legislation offering tax relief to victims of cybercrime, robbery, or natural disasters by restoring tax deductions offered to those outside of federally designated disaster areas and retroactively applying to taxes paid between 2018 and 2024.
