; (4) according to data from the Department of Labor, more than 30 million people have filed for unemployment since the COVID–19 pandemic began; (5) the impacts of the spread of COVID–19, which is now considered a global pandemic, are expected to negatively impact the incomes of potentially millions of renter households, making it difficult for them to pay their rent on time; and (6) evictions in the current environment would increase homelessness and housing instability which would be counterproductive towards the public health goals of keeping individuals in their homes to the greatest extent possible. (b) Moratorium During the period beginning on the date of the enactment of this Act and ending 12 months after such date of enactment, the lessor of a covered dwelling located in such State may not— (1) make, or cause to be made, any filing with the court of jurisdiction to initiate a legal action to recover possession of the covered dwelling from the tenant for nonpayment of rent or other fees or charges; or (2) charge fees, penalties, or other charges to the tenant related to such nonpayment of rent. (c) Definitions For purposes of this section, the following definitions shall apply: (1) Covered dwelling The term covered dwelling means a dwelling that is occupied by a tenant— (A) pursuant to a residential lease