H.R. 4761: Eviction Right to Counsel Act of 2025

This bill, titled the Eviction Right to Counsel Act of 2025, aims to support low-income tenants who are facing eviction by providing them with access to legal representation. Here’s a breakdown of the main components of the bill:

Definitions

• Covered Individual: A tenant with an income at or below 200% of the Federal poverty line.
• Covered Proceeding: Legal actions related to eviction from the tenant's primary residence or the termination of housing subsidies.
• Eligible Entity: State, local, or Indian Tribal governments that can apply for the funding.
• Right to Counsel Legislation: Laws that guarantee free legal representation for covered individuals in eviction-related cases.

Fund Establishment

The bill establishes a fund known as the Eviction Right to Counsel Fund within the U.S. Treasury. It authorizes $100 million each year from 2026 to 2030 to create this fund.

Grants for Legal Representation

The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development will create a program to distribute grants to eligible entities that either enact or financially support right to counsel laws for tenants. The process includes:

• Eligible entities must apply for grants and demonstrate that they are responsible for implementing right to counsel legislation.
• The Secretary will prioritize funding for:
  • Entities that limit eviction causes or require longer notice periods for eviction.
  • Entities implementing programs to divert evictions or providing emergency rental assistance.
  • Entities focusing on training and recruiting attorneys to represent tenants facing eviction.

Use of Grant Funds

Grant recipients can use the funds for various costs related to implementing right to counsel programs, including training materials for attorneys who will represent the covered individuals in legal proceedings.

Impact on Local Legislation

The bill encourages states and local governments to adopt more tenant-friendly laws as a condition for receiving grants, aiming to provide more security for tenants facing eviction threats.

Relevant Companies