Eviction concerns prompt Minneapolis and St. Paul leaders to pursue short-term measures

Minneapolis approved a 60-day extension before eviction for nonpayment; St. Paul is considering a similar ordinance and both cities have redirected local funds toward emergency rental assistance.

Cities across the Twin Cities region are responding to an increase in immigration enforcement activity that leaders and residents say is affecting many immigrant renters. Minneapolis passed an ordinance, 7-5, extending the time to pay rent from 30 to 60 days before eviction filings proceed. St. Paul is considering a similar ordinance with a likely final vote on March 18. Local officials and housing advocates say these short-term moves sit alongside calls for larger state-level rental assistance. Key developments: - Minneapolis City Council approved a 60-day payment window by a 7-5 vote. - Minneapolis redirected more than $1 million toward Hennepin County emergency rent relief, and St. Paul redirected $1.42 million into emergency rental assistance. - Minnesota legislators introduced a $75 million emergency rental assistance bill, while a $50 million measure was voted down in a House committee. - Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey has until March 12 to decide whether to veto the ordinance, and St. Paul’s final vote is likely March 18. Summary: The local measures are intended to give renters additional time to catch up amid impacts reported from Operation Metro Surge, but housing providers and tenant advocates disagree about possible unintended consequences and the strain on nonprofit and local budgets. State-level rental assistance has been proposed but its outcome is undetermined at this time. The mayor’s veto deadline on March 12 and St. Paul’s likely March 18 vote will determine the immediate legal status of the local measures.