Guide to Local Recovery Update: June 30
Jun 30, 2021
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has opened the application portal for the Emergency Connectivity Fund.
The $7.17 billion program provides funding for schools and libraries to buy laptops, tablets, WiFi hotspots, modems, routers, and connectivity for students, staff, and patrons who would otherwise lack access during the coronavirus pandemic. Applicants have until August 13 to apply for funding for the 2021-2022 school year. FCC staff set a target for the preview process turnaround at 50% of applications reviewed within 60 days and 70% reviewed within 100 days. Additional information is available on the program's website or the FCC’s website.
On Monday, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed legislation to extend the state’s eviction moratorium through September 30, 2021, and clear rent debt for low-income Californians that have suffered economic, pandemic-related hardship. Under AB 832 (Chiu), California will significantly increase cash assistance to low-income tenants and small landlords under the state’s $5.2 billion rent relief program, making it the largest and most comprehensive COVID rental protection and rent relief program in the U.S. More information about the legislation is available in the Governor’s press release.
The U.S. Department of the Treasury updated its American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds FAQ last Thursday. The updates clarified that Recovery Funds can be used for eviction prevention efforts or housing stability services. The Treasury Department stated, “Responses to the negative economic impacts of the pandemic include ‘rent, mortgage, or utility assistance [and] counseling and legal aid to prevent eviction or homelessness.’” The Department also noted that “recipients may transfer funds to, or execute grants or contracts with, court systems, nonprofits, and a wide range of other organizations to implement these strategies.”
Finally, the National League of Cities has released additional ARPA resources, including a recording of its Reporting Requirements webinar and a factsheet on how to use ARPA Recovery Funds to provide essential workers premium pay.
On Monday, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed legislation to extend the state’s eviction moratorium through September 30, 2021, and clear rent debt for low-income Californians that have suffered economic, pandemic-related hardship. Under AB 832 (Chiu), California will significantly increase cash assistance to low-income tenants and small landlords under the state’s $5.2 billion rent relief program, making it the largest and most comprehensive COVID rental protection and rent relief program in the U.S. More information about the legislation is available in the Governor’s press release.
The U.S. Department of the Treasury updated its American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds FAQ last Thursday. The updates clarified that Recovery Funds can be used for eviction prevention efforts or housing stability services. The Treasury Department stated, “Responses to the negative economic impacts of the pandemic include ‘rent, mortgage, or utility assistance [and] counseling and legal aid to prevent eviction or homelessness.’” The Department also noted that “recipients may transfer funds to, or execute grants or contracts with, court systems, nonprofits, and a wide range of other organizations to implement these strategies.”
Finally, the National League of Cities has released additional ARPA resources, including a recording of its Reporting Requirements webinar and a factsheet on how to use ARPA Recovery Funds to provide essential workers premium pay.
City officials looking for additional information about the American Rescue Plan Act and additional tools for recovery can visit the Cal Cities Guide to Local Recovery webpage.