This bill adds survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and sex trafficking as a protected class under the Fair Housing Act, meaning landlords and housing providers cannot legally discriminate against them when renting or selling housing. The legislation defines these survivors broadly to include people who have experienced or are perceived to have experienced such violence, and covers related issues like dating violence, stalking, and threatened harm. The bill also strengthens protections against intimidation and coercion by those in housing positions, while allowing government programs and organizations to offer special assistance and housing preferences specifically designed to help survivors find safe housing. Research cited in the bill shows that most homeless women have experienced severe violence and that many domestic violence survivors lack affordable housing options, putting them at increased risk of further victimization and trafficking.
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