TX
Texas House Bill HB4103

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas House Bill HB4103

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the prohibition of housing discrimination on the basis of a person's source of income and to the enforcement of that prohibition.

Impact

If enacted, HB 4103 would significantly influence housing laws in Texas by making it illegal for landlords and property owners to refuse rental agreements or to impose different terms or conditions on tenants based on their income sources. This bill aligns with fair housing principles and seeks to reduce barriers that low-income individuals and families often face when seeking rental housing. The prohibition of discriminatory practices could promote a more inclusive housing market and empower more residents to access safe and affordable housing.

Summary

House Bill 4103 seeks to prohibit housing discrimination based on a person's source of income, which includes assistance programs like housing choice vouchers under Section 8 of the United States Housing Act. The bill amends existing sections of the Texas Property Code to explicitly include 'source of income' alongside other protected characteristics such as race, color, and religion. The intent of the bill is to broaden protections for individuals seeking housing, aiming to ensure fair and equal access to housing opportunities regardless of their income sources.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB 4103 appears to be supportive among advocates and organizations focused on housing rights. Supporters argue that extending protections against discrimination for those utilizing rental assistance promotes equality and addresses systemic issues in housing accessibility. However, concerns have been voiced regarding potential pushback from landlords and the real estate industry, who may feel this adds to their regulatory burdens and complicates rental processes.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential for landlords to resist the enforcement of this bill, viewing it as an infringement on their property rights and choice over who to rent to. Critics argue that requiring property owners to accept all forms of income may lead to challenges in managing properties and could affect overall rental market conditions. The debate encapsulates a larger discussion on balancing landlord rights with tenant protections and how best to address housing disparities in Texas.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Property Code

  • Chapter 301. Texas Fair Housing Act
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 021
    • Section: 022
    • Section: 023
    • Section: 024
    • Section: 026
    • Section: 027
    • Section: 042
    • Section: 068

Latest HB4103 Activity

Companion Bills

TX SB570

Identical Relating to the prohibition of housing discrimination on the basis of a person's source of income and to the enforcement of that prohibition.

TX HB3277

Same As Relating to the prohibition of housing discrimination on the basis of a person's source of income and to the enforcement of that prohibition.

TX HB3277

Same As Relating to the prohibition of housing discrimination on the basis of a person's source of income and to the enforcement of that prohibition.

Similar Bills

MI HB4327

Civil rights: general discrimination; discrimination because of ethnicity, including discrimination because of Jewish heritage; prohibit under the Elliot-Larsen civil rights act. Amends title & secs. 102, 103, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, 209, 210, 301, 302, 302a, 402, 501, 502, 504, 505, 506 & 507 of 1976 PA 453 (MCL 37.2102 et seq.).

MI SB0004

Civil rights: general discrimination; sexual orientation and gender identity or expression; include as categories protected under the Elliott-Larsen civil rights act. Amends title & secs. 102, 103, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, 209, 301, 302, 302a, 402, 501, 502, 504, 505 & 506 of 1976 PA 453 (MCL 37.2102 et seq.).

MI HB4003

Civil rights: general discrimination; sexual orientation and gender identity or expression; include as categories protected under the Elliott-Larsen civil rights act. Amends title & secs. 102, 103, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, 209, 301, 302, 302a, 402, 501, 502, 504, 505 & 506 of 1976 PA 453 (MCL 37.2102 et seq.).

DE HB439

An Act To Amend Titles 6 And 25 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Housing Status Discrimination In Housing And Property.

TX HB2312

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TX SB2104

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TX HB875

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TX HB617

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