Legislation would temporarily stop business evictions, foreclosures

A bill recently introduced in the state Senate would temporarily halt evictions and foreclosures of businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Mom-and-pop retailers and restaurants are as vital to the fabric of our communities as our schools and civic organizations,” Sen. Tom Killion (R-Chester and Delaware), who introduced the bill, said. “Industry experts suggest one out of every five restaurants might never emerge from this crisis. That’s not acceptable. Pennsylvania must do what it can to give these businesses a chance to reopen and succeed.”

Small businesses are vital to our economy, Killion said, and halting evictions and foreclosures will make it easier for small-business owners to get back on their feet.

The bill has 15 cosponsors and bipartisan support. It also is supported by the Pennsylvania Restaurant and Lodging Association (PRLA) and business owners.

“The hospitality industry has been the most impacted by this crisis, and the return to normal business operations will not be swift, our members have little to no revenue right now, and we appreciate Senator Killion acknowledging this and introducing legislation that recognizes the time we will need to recover,” PRLA President and CEO John Longstreet said.

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court recently issued an order suspending residential foreclosures and evictions.