Texas House Bill HB875

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the prohibition of housing discrimination on the basis of age or certain housing needs and to the enforcement of that prohibition.

Impact

The enactment of HB 875 will directly amend existing statutes concerning equal housing opportunities, providing greater protection against age-related discrimination in the housing market. It asserts that no individual should face denial of housing options due to their age or specific needs arising from their age. By reinforcing these regulations, the policy aims to create a more equitable housing environment for older adults and ensure that they are not disenfranchised in housing matters.

Summary

House Bill 875 aims to prohibit housing discrimination based on age and specific housing needs within the state of Texas. The provisions in this bill expand the definition of 'age' to include individuals aged 65 and older and introduce 'housing needs' as a term referring to individuals’ specific housing requirements due to their age. The bill amends various sections of the Texas Property Code to ensure that real estate transactions and housing opportunities are accessible without discrimination based on age or related housing needs.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 875 has been largely positive, as it aligns with broader civil rights efforts aimed at dismantling discriminatory practices in housing. Advocates for the bill view it as a crucial step toward ensuring that senior citizens' rights are protected and that they have access to suitable housing. However, some dissent may arise from stakeholders concerned about how these measures might influence local housing policies or the operational capacities of housing providers.

Contention

While there is support for HB 875, there are potential points of contention regarding its implementation, particularly among landlords and real estate professionals who may need to adjust to the new legal framework. Concerns may also arise about the balance between protecting individuals' rights and maintaining landlords' rights to manage their properties as they see fit, indicating a complex dialogue around the enforcement of age-discriminatory practices in housing.