Arizona AG launches campaign to educate renters on housing discrimination

PHOENIX (AZFamily) — The Arizona Attorney General’s Office has launched a public awareness campaign about various forms of housing discrimination.

The ads are running online, on streaming services and on the radio. The AG’s office said the ads aim to empower and educate people on their rights as renters.

“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,” said AG Kris Mayes in a press release.

One of the campaign’s goals is to make renters aware of specific violations of the Arizona Fair Housing Act, including discrimination over emotional support animals, retaliation for reporting discrimination, being forced to pay higher deposits because of familial status and demands for sexual favors for repair.

“There are a lot that people who just don’t know about fair housing. It is important, and I am glad the AG’s office is getting into it. ... It is what we need. It is our vitality," said Shawna Tarboro, the Deputy Director of the Arizona Fair Housing Center.

Tarboro says disability is a top complaint nationwide and in Arizona. Sexual harassment is another common complaint, which has gone up 9% in the last two years, Tarboro said.

The new campaign includes proactive steps people can take to protect themselves from housing discrimination.

For more information on the campaign and how to file a complaint, click/tap here.

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