Several landlords in Connecticut have sued Governor Ned Lamont over his executive order suspending evictions for nonpayment of rent during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Lamont issued the order back in April in response to the economic shutdown.
It first prohibited evictions through July, with two 60-day grace periods for April and May rent, and allowed tenants who paid a security deposit of more than a month’s rent to use the excess money towards future rent payments.
Eight landlords involved in the lawsuit say the order allows their properties to be used by the public without compensation, and violates their constitutional right to private contract, due process of law and equal protection under the law.
Connecticut Attorney General William Tong says Lamont has the authority under the state constitution to protect Connecticut residents during a public health emergency.
