WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

AB 246

Social Security Tenant Protection Act of 2025.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Isaac Bryan and 3 co-sponsors

California law AB 246 bars landlords from rejecting tenants based on government assistance income like Social Security, expanding housing access for elderly and disabled residents.

Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 337, Statutes of 2025.
#socialsecuritytenantprotectionactof2025
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · AB 246

Legislative bill overview

AB 246 prohibits landlords in California from discriminating against tenants based on their source of income, specifically including Social Security benefits, SSI, and other government assistance programs. The bill became law in October 2025 after passing both chambers and receiving gubernatorial approval.

Why is this important

Approximately 1 in 4 California renters rely on some form of public assistance, yet many face housing discrimination based on income source rather than actual payment ability. This law directly addresses a barrier that prevents elderly, disabled, and low-income Californians from accessing stable housing by treating government benefits as legitimate income in rental decisions.

Potential points of contention

  • Landlord concerns: Property owners argue the law restricts their ability to assess tenant creditworthiness and may limit their discretion in tenant selection based on perceived financial reliability
  • Implementation challenges: Defining what constitutes prohibited discrimination versus legitimate underwriting practices may create enforcement ambiguity and litigation disputes
  • Market impacts: Critics contend the law could reduce rental housing supply or increase rents if landlords perceive greater financial risk, potentially harming the broader affordable housing market

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

Sign in to ask a question.