Eviction Right to Counsel Act of 2025

The Eviction Right to Counsel Act of 2025 establishes a federal grant program to support state, local, and Indian Tribal governments in providing legal representation to low-income tenants. The bill defines a "covered individual" as a tenant with an income at or below 200 percent of the Federal poverty line, facing eviction or housing subsidy termination in a "covered proceeding." The core purpose is to ensure these vulnerable individuals receive full legal representation at no cost through "right to counsel legislation." The legislation creates the Eviction Right to Counsel Fund within the Treasury, authorizing $100,000,000 annually from fiscal years 2026 through 2030 for grant distribution. The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development will administer these grants to eligible entities that either enact or are fiscally responsible for implementing such right to counsel legislation, requiring a certification of this commitment in their application. Priority for funding will be given to entities that have laws limiting no-fault evictions, requiring adequate eviction notice periods, establishing eviction diversion programs, or providing emergency rental assistance. Additionally, entities that prioritize using grant funds for the training and recruitment of attorneys to represent covered individuals will receive preference. Grant funds can be used to cover costs associated with implementing right to counsel legislation, including resources for attorney training.