On the evening of August 3, 2021, due to the rise of Delta-variant COVID-19 infections, the CDC is issuing an extension of the federal eviction moratorium, originally set to end July 31, 2021. This new Order is set to grant protections on a more targeted basis than its predecessors. 

The August 3rd Order will cover U.S. counties experiencing substantially higher rates of infection. Any counties that were not originally included will be granted coverage if COVID-19 cases spike starting after August 3rd. This Order will no longer apply to counties that report 14 consecutive days of significantly lowered infection rates compared to previous spikes. 

While the Order does not waive an individual’s duty to make rent, mortgage, or other housing payments, it does protect those who were in the process of being evicted due to missed payments prior to the Order if said eviction has not been completed. However, those who were involved in a completed eviction before August 3rd are not granted protections. 

Those who have, or have been exposed to COVID-19 are protected from eviction to prevent further spread. Likewise, the Order also protects those who would be made homeless, face loss of income, or have made substantial efforts to obtain government housing assistance. 

This extended Order will remain in effect until October 3, 2021. Massachusetts counties that are covered by the Order are Berkshire, Hampden, Worcester, Middlesex, Norfolk, Plymouth, Bristol, Essex, Suffolk, Barnstable and Dukes.