In a further relief effort for Kansans struggling due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Gov. Laura Kelly has signed executive orders placing a moratorium on evictions and foreclosures and exempting motor carriers from some delivery restrictions.

Kelly said she felt compelled to act after the U.S. Congress ended its latest session without making a decision on a potential new stimulus package.

“No Kansan should be kicked out of their home during this pandemic. That is just wrong,” Kelly said.

Kelly acknowledged that times are tough for landlords, too, and said her administration is looking for ways to support them.

Executive Order #20-61 temporarily prohibits initiating any mortgage foreclosure or judicial proceedings, and any commercial or residential eviction efforts or judicial proceedings due to financial hardship resulting from the pandemic until Sept. 15.

Executive Order #20-62 extends temporary relief for motor carriers until Sept. 14, or until the statewide State of Disaster Emergency expires, whichever is earlier. It is an extension of previous measures in Executive Order #20-57.

The order lifts certain weight restrictions and permitting requirements to allow needed medical supplies, food shipments and other items to move through Kansas as quickly as possible. These exceptions apply only to motor carriers actively participating in COVID-19 response efforts.

The state also opened applications on Aug. 19 for businesses to apply for $130 million in COVID-relief grants available through the CARES Act. Businesses can apply at www.kansascommerce.gov/covidrelief.