Texas Eviction Diversion Program

The Supreme Court of Texas and Court of Criminal Appeals, working with the Office of Court Administration are committed to ensure that justice continues to be served to all Texans in the current pandemic situation.

In response to COVID-19, the Supreme Court has issued the following Emergency Order.

Emergency Order 27 - Issued 09/25/2020

Establishes eviction procedures (Texas Eviction Diversion Program) for tenants and landlords under a statewide housing-assistance program intended to avoid evictions for tenants behind on rent. The order allows an eviction proceeding to be abated by agreement for 60 days, requires courts to provide tenants with information about the program, and makes court records for participants confidential while eviction cases are delayed. The order also outlines procedure for reinstating evictions. Without such reinstatement, eviction cases will be subject to dismissal. The order, expires December 18, and is effective October 12 for “pilot” counties established by the Office of Court Administration and November 9 for all other Texas counties.

The Texas Eviction Diversion Program is supported by Gov. Greg Abbott's commitment of $171 million in federal money for landlords to provide an eviction alternative. Eligibility for rental assistance under the program will be administered by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs.