This bill addresses the relationship between landlords and tenants, specifically focusing on the source of income that tenants may use for rent payments. It introduces a new section in the Iowa Code that prohibits landlords from discriminating against tenants based on their source of income, which includes various forms of assistance such as housing choice vouchers, public assistance, and veterans benefits. The bill clarifies that landlords cannot deny or terminate tenancies, impose restrictions, or make distinctions in rental terms based on a tenant's source of income. Additionally, it outlines specific actions that landlords are prohibited from taking, such as misrepresenting the availability of rental units or discouraging tenants from renting based on their income source.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing law by striking out certain subsections that previously prohibited municipal ordinances from preventing property owners from refusing to rent to individuals using federal housing choice vouchers. This change allows for greater local control over rental practices while reinforcing the protections against discrimination based on income sources. Overall, the bill aims to enhance housing accessibility for tenants relying on various forms of income assistance.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 331.304, 364.3