Congressman Johnson Announces Help for Rockdale, Newton Renters & Landlords

DECATUR, GA – Today, Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04), announced Georgia recently received $552 million from the U.S. Treasury's Federal Emergency Rental Assistance Program under the historic American Rescue Plan.

Because only larger metro Atlanta counties received COVID-19 relief funding under the CARES Act in 2020, residents in counties such as Rockdale and Newton could not get relief.

Now, they can. Using the federal funding, the Georgia Department of Community Affairs launched an online portal for tenants and landlords: https://georgiarentalassistance.ga.gov/ to help residents determine their eligibility and apply for rental relief due to the pandemic.

Financial assistance is open for eligible tenants, their landlords and utility providers to cover rent arrears, current and future rent payments, and utility arrears payments. Payments go directly to landlords and utility providers. Tenants can have up to a year of their rent covered; however, some households may qualify for a total of 15 months covered depending on circumstances.

"Last week was one of great progress and hope for the people of Georgia and all Americans as Democrats delivered on President Biden's promise that Help Is On The Way," said Rep. Johnson. "For a year, the pandemic and economic crisis have devastated Georgia families and small businesses, but with the American Rescue Plan, Georgians will receive the urgent relief they need. I was proud to help pass this landmark bill, and now, I am proud to share the robust support that will soon be headed to Georgia families and communities."

For more, visit: georgiarentalassistance.ga.gov.

###