Governor Inslee’s Housing Stability “Bridge” Proclamation is now in effect, July 1, 2021 – September 30, 2021. Below are some key takeaways from the proclamation, along with resources available to Issaquah residents.
“Bridge” Proclamation Highlights
- Intended to bridge the operational gap between the eviction moratorium (which expired on June 30) and the protections and programs enacted by the Legislature.
- An eviction for non-payment of past due rent is not permitted until the resources and programs established by the Legislature are in place and operational, and eviction for non-payment of future rent (August 1, 2021 through September 30, 2021) is not permitted if the tenant has demonstrably taken action to pay rent. Evictions for other reasons allowed under state law are permitted.
- Landlords are required to provide written notice to tenants, hard copy or electronically, of resources and programs that are available and provide reasonable repayment plans giving tenants 14 days to respond.
- Although late fees are prohibited until December 31st, 2021, rent increases are permitted as provided under state law (RCW 59.18.140)
- Not protected under the Bridge Proclamation are tenants who have been living in hotels/motels/AirBnBs/long-term care facilities/other non-traditional housing.
Resources Available for Issaquah Residents
- Rental Assistance Programs
- Legal Assistance Programs
- Mediation Services