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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2021 - 2022
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | June 4, 2021 03:53 PM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Amen Brown |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | A Fair Chance in Housing |
| The ability to obtain housing should be accessible by everyone, regardless of their background. When applying for a rental home, some Pennsylvanians are experiencing housing discrimination to a greater degree than their counterparts due to past criminal history. One of various components to reducing recidivism is ensuring housing security. By simply checking a box saying that one has a criminal history, individuals are more often than not immediately denied that opportunity to secure housing. We must do our part, as they have done in our neighboring state, to change a discriminatory housing practice. And, that is why I plan to introduce legislation where criminal justice and housing rights intersect. It is time we put an end to such discriminatory practice and “ban the box” that asks whether a person has been convicted of a crime on rental applications – also understanding that the persons being impacted the most are Black and brown communities. This approach will give individuals and their families a fair chance at putting a roof over their heads and having a sense of stability. We must ensure a more equitable housing market for all Pennsylvanians. Please join me in co-sponsoring this important legislation. |