Roger Sheffield: Governor Sununu has clarified his order regarding evictions

To The Daily Sun,

Last Friday, Governor Sununu revised his emergency order, which initially prohibited property owners from starting eviction proceedings of any kind during the state of emergency. While this provided relief to tenants who were financially suffering due to COVID-19, it also prevented property owners from evicting individuals for reasons other than their inability to pay.

Governor Sununu’s clarification allows property owners to begin eviction proceedings if their tenant causes damage to the property or are a threat to the health and safety of their neighbors. Additionally, it made clear that the governor’s emergency order does not relieve individuals of the obligation to pay their rent. The order encourages tenants and property owners to work together to set up payment plans or alternative arrangements if they are financially affected by the pandemic.

Moreover, Governor Sununu signed an emergency order that authorizes municipalities and counties to abate the interest charged on all unpaid property taxes during the state of emergency. This action will give property owners, including landlords who may receive less income from their tenants due to COVID-19, more relief during this pandemic.

Giving property owners more flexibility to comply with the emergency order, clarifying any misunderstanding by tenants and authorizing municipalities and municipalities to provide property tax relief shows that Gov. Sununu is methodical in his approach to addressing this crisis. While putting public health above all else, Gov. Sununu has also proven to be a responsible steward of our economy and the wellbeing of his constituents.

Roger Sheffield

Meredith