View Rule

The Rural Housing Service (RHS) is proposing to publish a final rule with comment to update 7 CFR part 3560, subpart D, to implement changes related to the Multi-Family Housing (MFH) Direct Loan Program.  The updates to the regulation would provide that, during the COVID-19 pandemic and any other public health emergencies, the Secretary may require that section 515, 514 and 516 MFH program borrowers provide tenants with information on any available emergency funding specific to the emergency prior to initiating a lease termination or eviction action. 

Additionally, the expected outcomes of this regulation update, will provide that, in such circumstances, the Secretary may extend the time period before lease termination for nonpayment of rent to 30 days after the tenant has received such information. Currently, MFH section 515, 514 and 516 tenants must vacate the property within 30 days of notice of occupancy termination. This extension will provide adequate opportunities for tenants to overcome impediments to secure emergency funding and will prevent unnecessary evictions. The programs covered by this part are authorized by title V of the Housing Act of 1949, as amended.