; or (2) subject premises described in paragraph (1) to a distress. (b) Stay of execution (1) Court authority Upon an application for eviction or distress with respect to premises described in subsection (a)(1), a court may, upon motion of the court, and shall, if a request is made by or on behalf of a Federal worker, the ability of whom to pay the rent that is the subject of the action is materially affected by a shutdown— (A) stay the proceedings for a period of 30 days, unless, in the opinion of the court, justice and equity require a longer or shorter period of time; or (B) adjust the obligation under the lease to preserve the interests of all parties. (2) Relief to landlord If a court grants a stay under paragraph (1), the court may grant to the landlord (or other person with paramount title) such relief as equity may require. (c) Misdemeanor Except as provided in subsection (a), a person that knowingly takes part in an eviction or distress described in that subsection, or that knowingly attempts to take part in an eviction or distress described in that subsection, shall be fined as provided in title 18, United States Code, or imprisoned for not more than 1 year, or both. 7. Mortgage protection and foreclosures (a) Definition In this section, the term covered action means an action relating to an obligation— (1) with respect to real or personal property owned by a Federal worker; and (2) that— (A) originated before the date on which a shutdown begins; (B) is in effect on the date on which a shutdown begins