Attention renters and landlords: the December Omnibus and American Rescue Plan provided a combined $46.5 billion in emergency rental assistance to help cover unpaid rent, upcoming rent, and utilities for the 16 million Americans who report being behind on rent. For eligible households, 100% of back-rent and utilities dating back to April 2020 will be covered. Landlords and tenants can apply here.

In order to qualify, renters must be financially impacted by COVID-19 and have a household income at or below 80% of the Area Median Income. In San Mateo County, that would be $117,100 for a household of 2, or $146,350 for a household of 4. If you're unsure whether you qualify, take this eligibility test to find out! For any additional questions, you can also contact the CA COVID-19 Rent Relief Call Center at 833-430-2122.

So far, California has provided an estimated $210 million in rental assistance to over 16,000 households. But we must continue to get funds out quickly in order to help families avoid eviction.

I'm also an original cosponsor of legislation to extend the eviction moratorium nationwide through December 31, and stand ready to vote for this critical bill to ensure our neighbors are not subjected to evictions amid a deadly pandemic.