Worthington has a long tradition of inclusion and respect for people of diverse backgrounds. By prohibiting housing discrimination based upon someone’s source of income, Worthington would further solidify itself as a community that values equality and non-discrimination that is welcoming of all people.  

SOI discrimination affects a diverse population of prospective renters, particularly people of color, women, and persons with disabilities. Central Ohio and Worthington are facing a highly competitive real estate market, and the region has a persistently high poverty rate that causes many vulnerable groups to struggle to find housing in high-opportunity and resource rich neighborhoods, providing people with more housing choices. SOI legislation will begin to break down barriers due to housing discrimination.

Renters at risk of discrimination receive income from a variety of sources that include veterans’ benefits, social security benefits, disability income, public assistance, and rental assistance programs such as housing vouchers. Additionally, income sources such as unemployment, retirement/pension payments, trusts, and child/spousal support have been difficult for renters to use among some landlords.  

Landlords cannot advertise or state a preference for tenants with certain sources of income, or refuse an application, charge a higher rent, or treat a prospective tenant differently based upon their income source. Properties also may not falsely be represented as being unavailable for tenancy because the prospective tenant will be using a specific type of income to pay rent.

Landlords will not be mandated to accept every prospective tenant with non-wage income and will continue to have the ability to use regular tenant qualification processes. SOI legislation would make it so a prospective tenant with non-wage income would have equal opportunity to rent a property and could not be discriminated against based upon their income source. It is important to note that landlords are not required to accept lower rent if the payment standard from the program administrator is less than market rent.  

Depending on the type of income being used, landlords may have to complete paperwork and undergo an inspection process to accept certain types of assistance. Inspections ensure that the property meets housing quality standards including things such as sanitary facilities, smoke detectors, working plumbing, sound structure, and locks on each window and door. Afterwards, landlords may then be responsible for annual re-inspections to remain compliant.  

People who believe they have been discriminated against because of a protected characteristic, such as source of income, may file a charge with the Worthington City Clerk and the Law Director or their designee will proceed with an investigation. If it is determined that discrimination occurred, a cease-and-desist order and/or fine may be issued.