Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB714

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 11/27/23
• Refer: 11/27/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Discrimination in housing based on prior eviction and providing a penalty. (FE)

Impact

If enacted, AB714 would significantly impact housing policies by enhancing tenant protections against discrimination due to previous eviction records. This change seeks to improve access to rental housing for individuals who may have faced housing instability in the past but have since rectified their situation. The bill could facilitate substantial shifts in the housing market dynamics, making it more inclusive and reducing barriers for a vulnerable segment of the population, including those re-entering the housing market after experiencing prior eviction.

Summary

Assembly Bill 714 aims to amend existing state laws regarding housing discrimination related to eviction records, specifically prohibiting discrimination based on evictions that occurred more than five years prior. The bill establishes that it is unlawful for landlords and other housing providers to inquire about a prospective tenant's eviction history if the eviction is over five years old. Additionally, it forbids them from refusing rental housing based on this and mandates they inform applicants of their rights regarding the disclosure of such past evictions.

Contention

While the bill is primarily designed to protect tenants, it has sparked some debate among various stakeholders. Proponents argue that the bill addresses systemic issues within housing policies that disproportionally affect lower-income individuals and minorities, allowing them a fair chance at securing housing without the burden of past failures. However, opponents, including some landlord associations, are concerned it may inadvertently shield tenants who have a history of problematic rental behavior or necessitate landlords to engage in more extensive tenant screening processes to mitigate risks, potentially complicating the rental application processes.