WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) has joined a group of lawmakers backing legislation to expand federal housing protections for veterans and low-income families, groups advocates say are frequently turned away by landlords despite meeting eligibility requirements.
The Fair Housing Improvement Act of 2025, introduced by Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Adam Schiff (D-CA), would amend the Fair Housing Act of 1968 to prohibit discrimination based on military or veteran status and source of income. Currently, 2.3 million households use Housing Choice Vouchers to help pay rent, but no federal law bars landlords from denying applicants who rely on vouchers.
“Honoring our veterans means moving past the talk and taking real action for the men and women who put their lives on the line for our nation,” Fetterman said. “Every veteran and every family struggling to keep a roof over their head deserve dignity and our support, not discrimination.”
Under the proposal, landlords would be prohibited from rejecting tenants because they use federal housing vouchers, Social Security payments, court-ordered support, or other lawful income sources. The measure would also give property owners 40 months to comply with the new rules.
The bill has drawn support from dozens of housing, veterans, and social service organizations, including the National Low Income Housing Coalition, Paralyzed Veterans of America, and Catholic Charities USA. Advocates say it could help reduce veteran homelessness and widen access to affordable housing.
In addition to Fetterman, the measure is backed by Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Patty Murray (D-WA), and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), along with several House Democrats led by Rep. Scott Peters (D-CA).
Supporters argue the legislation builds on the original intent of the Fair Housing Act by extending its protections to groups disproportionately affected by discrimination in today’s housing market.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.