Arizona Cities Adopt Source of Income Protection: Opening the Door to Greater Housing Opportunities

ARIZONA — The cities of Tucson, Phoenix, and Tempe have taken a significant stride forward in promoting fair housing and supporting finically vulnerable individuals through the enactment of Source of Income (SOI) protection. This legislative move is pivotal in Arizona's ongoing commitment to eliminating housing discrimination based on income sources and ensuring equal access to housing for all residents.

SOI prohibits housing discrimination based on how individuals receive their income, whether through government assistance, such as Section 8, child support, social security, disability benefits, or any other lawful means. This landmark policy aims to dismantle barriers that have historically prevented vulnerable low-income populations from securing housing.

"In a time when the gap between housing availability and affordability continues to widen, adopting SOI protections is an important step in preventing discriminatory practices," said Jay Young, Executive Director of Southwest Fair Housing Council (SWFHC). "This policy ensures that all Arizonans, especially the financially vulnerable, have a fair chance at finding a home."

The enactment of SOI protections in Tucson, Phoenix, and Tempe has gone into effect this year [2024] and will likely see a positive impact on the lives of many Arizonans, offering them new opportunities to access suitable housing without the fear of discrimination. 

It is a significant victory for housing equity and a testament to the power of community advocacy and legislative action in making Arizona a more inclusive state. For more information on Source of Income protections and the efforts of the Southwest Fair Housing Council to promote fair housing across Arizona, please visit www.swfhc.org/soi or contact Tasha Lynch.

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.

Southwest Fair Housing Council Secures Landmark Legal Victory for Disability Rights in Housing

Tucson, Arizona – In a significant win for disability rights and fair housing, the Southwest Fair Housing Council (SWFHC) has successfully obtained a permanent injunction against WG Scottsdale LLC, d/b/a Atria Sierra Pointe, as ordered by United States District Judge Roseniary Mafxnlez. Following a unanimous jury verdict, this landmark decision marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing fight against housing discrimination.

The court ruling mandates comprehensive changes to ensure effective communication and accommodation for disabled individuals. WG Scottsdale LLC is now legally bound to provide auxiliary aids and services, including sign language interpreters, and to maintain detailed records of all related requests and provisions. Additionally, the company is required to create and implement a comprehensive plan of action to ensure timely access to necessary accommodations and compliance with fair housing laws.

This case stemmed from a lawsuit filed by the SWFHC, which alleged that WG Scottsdale LLC had violated the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Federal Fair Housing Act (FHA), and the Arizona Fair Housing Act (AZFHA). The jury awarded both nominal and punitive damages, recognizing the gravity of the defendant's violations.

Judge Mafxnlez's ruling emphasizes the importance of upholding the rights of individuals with disabilities within the housing sector. The court's decision underscores that failure to provide necessary accommodations constitutes a civil rights violation, warranting legal and corrective action.

"This ruling is not just a victory for the Southwest Fair Housing Council but for every individual who has faced discrimination due to their disability," said Jay Young, Executive Director of SWFHC. "It sends a clear message that housing providers must proactively ensure equal access and accommodations for all individuals, as mandated by federal and state laws."

SWFHC remains committed to advocating for fair housing practices and dismantling discriminatory barriers. This case serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance and action to protect the rights of all individuals in their pursuit of fair and equitable housing.

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.