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SB 206

Civil rights: housing discrimination; housing discrimination based on source of income; prohibit. Amends title & sec. 1 of 1972 PA 348 (MCL 554.601). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0205'23, HB 4062'23

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Rosemary Bayer and 10 co-sponsors

Michigan prohibits housing discrimination based on income source, protecting tenants receiving public assistance, disability benefits, or housing vouchers from rental denials.

ASSIGNED PA 0179'24
#civilrights:housingdiscrimination #housing:landlordandtenants
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Bill Summary · SB 206

Legislative bill overview

SB 206 amends Michigan's Fair Housing Act to prohibit housing discrimination based on source of income. The bill expands protected categories under the 1972 Fair Housing Act to include individuals receiving income from public assistance, housing vouchers, disability benefits, or other non-traditional income sources. This became law on December 30, 2024.

Why is this important

Housing discrimination based on income source affects millions of Americans relying on government assistance, including low-income families, seniors on Social Security, and disabled individuals using housing vouchers. This change creates explicit legal recourse for renters denied housing solely because their income comes from public benefits rather than traditional employment, potentially increasing housing access for vulnerable populations.

Potential points of contention

  • Landlord concerns: Property owners argue source-of-income protections reduce screening flexibility and may increase rental payment risk, though data from other states shows mixed results on actual default rates
  • Scope ambiguity: The bill's definition of "source of income" and enforcement mechanisms could face interpretation challenges during implementation
  • Economic impact debate: Business groups contend compliance costs and litigation risk could reduce rental housing supply; advocates counter that discrimination shouldn't be a legitimate business practice

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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