Members of the West Virginia Apartment Association recently traveled to Washington, D.C. for the NAA Lobby Day to engage with federal policymakers on issues impacting the rental housing industry.
As part of the advocacy effort, the delegation met with Quynn Kennedy from the office of Carol Miller to discuss the Respect State Housing Laws Act and ongoing concerns related to federal eviction notice requirements connected to the CARES Act.
During the meeting, apartment industry representatives outlined how temporary federal housing provisions established during the COVID-19 pandemic continue to create legal uncertainty years after the emergency ended. Delegates discussed how varying interpretations of the CARES Act’s 30-day notice requirement can create inconsistencies between federal guidance and existing state housing laws.
The group emphasized that housing providers regularly work to keep residents housed through communication, payment arrangements, and other resolution efforts before eviction is considered. Representatives also noted that uncertainty surrounding eviction timelines can create financial and operational challenges for housing providers, courts, and residents alike.
The delegation encouraged support for the Respect State Housing Laws Act, which would clarify that the CARES Act’s temporary notice requirement has expired and reaffirm state authority over eviction procedures and timelines.
The meeting provided an opportunity for the West Virginia apartment industry to share practical, on-the-ground perspectives about housing operations and the importance of clear, consistent housing policy.