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WA Bill Targets Housing Discrimination Based on Income Source

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/01/2 .. using-discrimination-based-on-income-source.html
  Published in House and Home on Monday, January 26th 2026 at 21:45 GMT by KHQ
      Locales: Washington, UNITED STATES

Olympia, WA - January 27th, 2026 - A pivotal piece of legislation currently under review by Washington state lawmakers, House Bill 1916, aims to dismantle discriminatory practices within the housing market, specifically targeting landlords who refuse to accept certain forms of payment. The bill, sponsored by Representative Mia Gregerson (D-SeaTac), seeks to broaden housing access for low-income individuals and families facing instability.

The core of House Bill 1916 revolves around prohibiting discrimination based on "source of income." This encompasses a range of payment methods often relied upon by vulnerable populations, including rental assistance vouchers (like Section 8), unemployment benefits, and child support. Essentially, landlords would be legally barred from denying housing applications solely because a prospective tenant intends to pay rent using one of these mechanisms.

Addressing a Growing Crisis

Representative Gregerson has highlighted the pressing need for this legislation, citing the persistent issues of homelessness and housing instability plaguing communities across Washington. She argues that the current landscape often presents significant barriers for families striving to achieve financial security. "There are too many families who are experiencing homelessness or instability and this bill could potentially provide a pathway to stability for those families," Gregerson stated. The bill is seen as a direct attempt to level the playing field and provide a crucial lifeline to those struggling to secure adequate housing.

Potential Penalties for Non-Compliance

The proposed bill doesn't merely outline protections for renters; it also establishes accountability for landlords who violate its provisions. Those found to be discriminating based on source of income could face substantial fines and other penalties, designed to deter discriminatory practices and ensure compliance with the law. The specific amounts of these penalties remain subject to debate within the Appropriations Committee.

Concerns from the Rental Industry

While proponents champion the bill's potential to alleviate housing disparities, it has also drawn concerns from segments of the rental industry. Josh Olsen, a property manager, voiced anxieties regarding the practical implications of the legislation. He expressed concerns that the added regulations and complexities could negatively impact the ability of property management companies to operate efficiently, especially considering the already rising costs and regulatory burdens facing the sector. "I'm worried about the practical impacts of this bill," Olsen noted. "We have to be able to run a business, and we're already dealing with increased costs and regulations. This just adds another layer of complexity."

Current Status and Future Prospects

As of today, January 27th, 2026, House Bill 1916 remains under consideration within the House Appropriations Committee. This committee is responsible for evaluating the bill's financial implications and its potential impact on the state budget. The committee's review is expected to involve further discussions, amendments, and potentially expert testimony from both advocates for affordable housing and representatives of the rental industry. The outcome of the Appropriations Committee's deliberations will significantly shape the bill's chances of advancing to a full House vote and ultimately becoming law.

The debate surrounding House Bill 1916 underscores the larger national conversation regarding housing affordability and equitable access to housing resources. The bill's success in Washington state could potentially serve as a model for other states grappling with similar challenges, influencing policy changes aimed at creating fairer and more inclusive housing markets across the nation. The potential for a ripple effect highlights the importance of the committee's upcoming review and the arguments presented by both sides of the issue.