READ AND PASSED

This enacted ordinance strengthens Philadelphia’s protections against housing discrimination based on source of income, including Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) and other housing assistance. It also changes how the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations investigates housing complaints, provides notices, handles appeals and conciliation agreements, and allows people to bring certain housing discrimination claims in court.

Amending Chapter 9-1100 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Fair Practices Ordinance: Protections Against Unlawful Discrimination," to clarify and enhance protections against housing discrimination for housing assistance program participants, to modify certain procedures for investigation of housing discrimination complaints and conciliation, appeal and election of civil action of all complaints filed with the Commission, and to make related technical changes, all under certain terms and conditions.