Attorney General Mayes Launches Campaign to Combat Housing Discrimination in Arizona

Attorney General Kris Mayes announces a new campaign to combat housing discrimination.Photo byAllison AstorgaonUnsplash

PHOENIX - Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes announced today the launch of a public awareness campaign aimed at combating housing discrimination and educating renters about their legal rights.

The campaign, according to a written release from Mayes' office, will focus on highlighting housing practices that may violate the Arizona Fair Housing Act.

This includes discrimination based on emotional support animals, retaliation for reporting discrimination, being forced to pay higher deposits due to familial status, demands for sexual favors in exchange for repairs, and disability discrimination.

"Every Arizonan deserves to be treated fairly and equally under the law when securing housing," Mayes said in the release.

"My office is committed to ensuring that all residents understand their rights, recognize what constitutes illegal discrimination, and know what steps to take if they have been discriminated against."

Mayes also shared practical steps renters can take to protect themselves from housing discrimination, including:

Read through the paperwork: Carefully review all documents related to your housing and ask questions if anything is unclear. Keep a record of questions and responses.

Save important documents: Keep copies of your lease agreement, rental application, policies, and any communications with the housing provider.

Track financial transactions: Maintain records of all payments, including rent, fees, and any payments not covered by the housing provider.

Document property condition: Take photos or videos of the property's condition when moving in and out, and record any issues you report to management.

Get written proof: Ensure all promises and key interactions with the landlord or management are documented in writing.

Mayes urges Arizonans who believe they have experienced housing discrimination to file complaints with the Civil Rights Division of the Attorney General's Office.