Communities Accused of Applying Discriminatory Blanket Bans on Renters with Criminal Histories

In Washington State, five rental housing companies have agreed to settle allegations that they violated federal and state fair housing law by applying blanket bans on tenants with a past felony, according to a statement by State Attorney General Bob Ferguson’s office.

Although criminal convictions may be grounds for housing providers to deny applicants after appropriate inquiry, fair housing laws prohibit landlords from applying overly broad bans on those convicted of crimes, because such bans are likely to discriminate against minorities, according to the statement.