Mayor announces eviction moratorium in Harrisburg

• By Craig Rhodes/WITF

(Harrisburg)  —  The City of Harrisburg has passed an emergency ordinance that temporarily suspends the eviction of tenants.

Mayor Eric Papenfuse called the measure “very important” in protecting city residents during difficult times.

The bill, passed by city council last week, only applies to eviction for non-payment of rent.

It has no effect on evictions related to criminal activity, threats to the health and safety of other residents or damage to property.

Nothing in the ordinance relieves a tenant of the obligation to pay rent.

Violators could face fines of up to $10,000 or 90-days imprisonment.