A state lawmaker from Ann Arbor has called for adding a new protection for people seeking housing in Michigan. He says people should not be denied a house or apartment based on where they get the money to pay the rent. We have more from Rick Pluta.
State SenatorJeff Irwin is a Democrat from Ann Arbor. His bill would prohibit landlords from denying housing or charging tenants more based on the fact that rent money comes from a legal source other than a paycheck. He says that includes funding from child support, government housing vouchers, or VA payments.
“They can still verify whether or not you have income. They could look at your credit report. They can see if you have a history of paying your rent.”
Michigan already offers other protections for renters. Those include bans against discrimination based on gender, age, family status, or a disability. Irwin says he’s hoping to get a hearing on his bill when the Legislature returns next year from its winter break.
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— Rick Pluta is the Managing Editor and Reporter for the Michigan Public Radio network. Contact WEMU News at734.487.3363 or email us at studio@wemu.org
