Eviction Right to Counsel Act of 2025
Summary
The Eviction Right to Counsel Act of 2025 aims to provide grants to state and local governments that enact or implement right to counsel legislation for low-income tenants facing eviction. The bill establishes the 'Eviction Right to Counsel Fund' within the Treasury, allocating $100 million annually from 2026 to 2030. These funds will support eligible entities in providing legal representation to covered individuals in eviction proceedings.
Expected Effects
The act would likely increase access to legal representation for low-income tenants facing eviction. This could lead to fewer unjust evictions and more equitable outcomes in housing disputes. It may also incentivize states and localities to enact right to counsel legislation.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to legal representation for low-income tenants.
- Reduced instances of unjust evictions.
- More equitable outcomes in housing disputes.
- Incentivizes states and localities to enact right to counsel legislation.
- Provides funding for training and recruitment of attorneys.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential strain on state and local government budgets if demand for legal services exceeds grant funding.
- Increased administrative burden for the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development in managing the grant program.
- Possible delays in eviction proceedings due to increased legal representation.
- Risk of inefficient use of funds if not properly managed and overseen.
- Potential for increased litigation costs for landlords.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with the Constitution by promoting the general welfare (Preamble) and ensuring equal protection under the law, particularly for vulnerable populations facing eviction. While the Constitution does not explicitly guarantee a right to counsel in civil cases, this Act aims to address imbalances in legal representation, furthering the pursuit of justice. The spending clause (Article I, Section 8) provides Congress with the power to allocate funds for the general welfare, which this Act seeks to do by supporting legal aid for low-income tenants.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).