New Legal Standards: California Takes Steps to Crack Down on Housing Discrimination

By Aldon Thomas Stiles | California Black Media (CBM) – Since the early 1990s, landlords and managers nationwide have partnered with law enforcement to implement “crime-free housing” policies. These policies aim to reduce criminal activities such as drug use and gang activity. In California, crime-free housing has become increasingly controversial. Advocates and some state officials have been railing against these policies for being discriminatory. On April 21, California Attorney General (AG) Rob Bonta announced new guidance for crime-free housing policies statewide, pointing out that the former rules disproportionately impacted “people of color, survivors of domestic violence, people with disabilities, and justice-involved individuals,” according to the press release from the Attorney General’s office. “In California, we’re taking action to end housing discrimination and foster diverse communities,” stated Bonta. “The statewide guidance issued today presents clear legal standards and procedures to proactively prevent discriminatory housing practices within localities,” Bonta continued. “Tenants have rights under the Fair Employment and Housing Act and other California laws that protect against many forms of housing discrimination, and this guide aims to ensure we are eliminating barriers to housing and promoting equal opportunities.” Across California, 147 cities and counties have adopted revised policies aimed at eliminating discrimination,...