Tucson, AZ – Southwest Fair Housing Council (SWFHC) reaffirms its commitment to upholding and educating the public on the protections of the Fair Housing Act, particularly regarding the rights of individuals with disabilities to live with their assistance animals in Arizona. As a community resource, SWFHC provides crucial support and advocacy to enforce these protections throughout the state.

An assistance animal is not a pet but an essential part of the daily lives of many individuals with disabilities.  Unlike service animals, which are specifically trained to perform particular tasks such as guiding blind people or detecting seizures, assistance animals require no formal training. These animals perform various tasks or provide emotional support that alleviates one or more identified symptoms or effects of a person's disabilities. Their presence alone, offering comfort and support, qualifies them under the Fair Housing Act.

The Fair Housing Act mandates that housing providers make reasonable accommodations to allow individuals with disabilities to live with their assistance animals; this includes waiving no-pet policies and associated pet fees, which can often be a barrier for those needing these vital supports. 

SWFHC is dedicated to ensuring that all Arizonans understand these rights and responsibilities, providing resources and support to both housing providers and residents to foster compliance and understanding.

"Ensuring fair and equal housing opportunities for all Arizonans, including those with disabilities, is at the heart of what we do," said Jay Young, Director of SWFHC. "Assistance animals play a critical role in the lives of many individuals, and understanding the distinction between these animals and pets is crucial for respecting and implementing the protections afforded by the Fair Housing Act."

SWFHC invites all residents and housing providers to reach out for information, guidance, and support regarding the accommodation of assistance animals. The SWFHC also provides educational programs and materials to help clarify these rights and promote compliance across Arizona.

For more information, please contact:

Southwest Fair Housing Council (SWFHC)
Phone: (520) 798-1568
Email: info@swfhc.com
Website: www.swfhc.com

About SWFHC
The Southwest Fair Housing Council promotes fair housing and equal opportunity through education, advocacy, and enforcement. We strive to eliminate discrimination in housing and provide resources to ensure all individuals have access to safe and affordable housing.