The Emergency Rental Assistance Program Reform Congressional Review Emergency Amendment Act of 2025 aims to enhance the Emergency Rental Assistance (ERAP) process by amending the Homeless Services Reform Act of 2005 and the Rental Housing Act of 1985. Key changes include requiring tenants to provide specific documentation to establish eligibility for ERAP funds, clarifying the definition of an emergency situation that qualifies for assistance, and mandating the Mayor to issue regulations to implement these changes. Additionally, the bill allows courts to stay eviction proceedings when tenants demonstrate they have a pending ERAP application, rather than mandating it, and requires housing providers to reschedule evictions if a tenant has an approved ERAP application.

The bill also introduces new definitions, such as "ERAP provider," and outlines the responsibilities of housing providers regarding payment information necessary for ERAP applications. It establishes an affirmative defense for tenants in eviction cases if housing providers fail to comply with the ERAP application process. Furthermore, if a housing provider does not provide requested payment information within 45 days, the court may waive the rent that would have been covered by a successful ERAP application. These amendments are designed to streamline the assistance process and protect tenants facing eviction due to financial hardships.