Housing Discrimination and Sex Offenders: A Conflict Remains Unsolved

In February of this year, California Assemblyman Greg Aghazarian (R) introduced a bill which addressed the conflict in the law as it relates to sex offenders and housing discrimination. AB 1197, as written, would recite the legislature's intent that the Unruh Act, and housing discrimination protection, would be reflective of the laws protecting children from sex offenders (such as Megan's Law).

The bill died in committee but I hope that Assemblyman Aghazarian brings it back again. If he does, the safety of our children dictates that his fellow legislators support the law.

The protection of children is most important. But the law as it stands puts landlords in a bind. If the Dept. of Justice (D.O.J.)identifies a sex offender, shouldn't a property owner be permitted to recognize this in deciding who rents his or her property and lives next to other tenants? The ACLU and some special interest groups have opposed this bill, of course. Even the disability advocates oppose the bill because some sex offenders are disabled. But where do the rights of property owners come in? And, where does the safety of California's children come in?

I'll keep you posted if I hear more. Until then, you can call Assemblyman Aghazarian or your legislator and get this issue resolved before the problem is magnified....