Treasury Provides Rent Relief Guidelines
The Treasury Department released updated FAQs for states and municipalities (“grantees”) reflecting the Biden Administration’s guidelines for structuring Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) programs, clearing the way for states to begin administering rental assistance to renters and housing providers.

Stimulus Bill Update
President Biden signed into law the “American Rescue Plan” on February 23. This is a stimulus package/covid relief bill of around $1.9 trillion. Click here to calculate your stimulus check.

Minnesota Department of Commerce Licensing Examinations
The Minnesota Department of Commerce is now offering an online option for licensing candidates to take their pre-license examinations in real estate or insurance. The online examination makes licensure more accessible and helps to add more licensed professionals to provide real estate and insurance services in Minnesota.

Tenant Opportunity to Purchase Act
The Minneapolis City Council introduced a Tenant Opportunity to Purchase Act (TOPA) proposal last week. This proposal has been referred to the Business, Inspections, Housing & Zoning Committee for further consideration. Realtors® favor the creation of homeownership opportunities and support a wide variety of housing options. However, TOPA has several drawbacks, unintended consequences, and substantially alters private property rights and property ownership. Stay tuned for draft language when available. Please see TOPA talking points and resources.

City of St. Paul Forms Change
A new ordinance related to residential leasing was implemented on the City of St. Paul on March 1. The ordinance requires just cause for termination of certain residential leases and requires the landlord or landlord’s agent to provide a notice to tenants of the same. Violation of the ordinance may result in criminal prosecution or administrative fines and has prompted three different Forms changes. Read more.