The bill, introduced by Representatives Upchurch and Lawson-Rowe, amends sections 4112.01 and 4112.02 of the Revised Code to prohibit discrimination in rental housing based on a tenant's lawful source of income. It defines "lawful source of income" to encompass any verifiable source of money, including income from lawful professions, government assistance programs, and various forms of financial aid. The bill aims to prevent individuals from being denied housing opportunities due to their income sources, while also clarifying that discrimination based on sex includes considerations related to pregnancy and childbirth. This reinforces the commitment to equal opportunities in both housing and employment.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions that prohibit discriminatory actions in housing practices based on lawful sources of income, such as refusing to rent or misrepresenting housing availability. It also emphasizes existing protections against discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, military status, familial status, ancestry, disability, or national origin. Furthermore, the bill amends the definition of disability in the context of employment and substance use, specifying that disabilities do not include disorders caused by illegal substance use, with exceptions for individuals in rehabilitation programs. It repeals previous sections of the Revised Code related to disability and employment and clarifies that testing for illegal substance use does not constitute a medical examination.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 4112.01, 4112.02