South Carolina 2025-2026 Regular Session

South Carolina House Bill H3336

Introduced

1/14/25

Refer

1/14/25

Caption

Housing discrimination

Note

If enacted, the bill will take effect upon approval by the Governor, ushering in a significant improvement in the legislative landscape surrounding housing discrimination in South Carolina.

Impact

The bill's impact extends to enhancing the protections for vulnerable populations, particularly individuals with disabilities and those who receive housing assistance through various programs. By prohibiting landlords and sellers from denying tenancy or sale based on sources of income, such as government subsidies, and disabilities, the bill seeks to prevent exclusionary practices in the housing market. This change signifies a potential shift in housing dynamics, particularly in urban areas where such discrimination has been prevalent.

Summary

House Bill 3336 amends existing South Carolina laws regarding housing discrimination to explicitly prohibit discrimination based on disability and source of income. The bill updates Sections 31-21-40, 31-21-50, and 31-21-60 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, providing a clearer legal framework to protect individuals from discrimination in housing-related transactions. This amendment is significant as it aligns state laws with evolving social standards of equality and discrimination, aiming to assure that individuals with disabilities and those relying on specific sources of income are granted equal access to housing opportunities.

Contention

While the bill is largely viewed as a step forward, some debate surrounds its implications. Supporters argue that it addresses long-standing inequalities and discrimination, thereby fostering a more inclusive community. However, opponents may raise concerns about the potential impact on landlords, particularly small property owners, regarding their rights to choose tenants. There may be fears that the bill could lead to financial liabilities for landlords if compliance issues arise, though proponents maintain that it's essential for fostering equity in housing opportunities.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

SC SB274

Fair Housing and Housing Discrimination - Regulations and Discriminatory Effect

SC HB573

Fair Housing and Housing Discrimination - Regulations, Intent, and Discriminatory Effect

SC HB1578

Prohibited discrimination in housing.

SC HB1128

Prohibited discrimination in housing.

SC HB242

Discrimination in Housing - Consumer Credit History

SC HB135

Prohibit source of income discrimination in rental housing

SC A08913

Prohibits discrimination based upon housing status.

SC S08444

Prohibits discrimination based upon housing status.

SC HB339

Housing Discrimination & Human Rights Act

SC LD1036

An Act to Protect Recipients of Public Assistance from Housing Discrimination

Similar Bills

PA HB300

Further providing for the title of the act, for findings and declaration of policy, for right to freedom from discrimination in employment, housing and public accommodation, for definitions, for unlawful discriminatory practices and for prohibition of certain real estate practices; providing for protection of religious exercise; and further providing for powers and duties of the commission and for construction and exclusiveness of remedy.

CT HB07219

An Act Protecting 504 Plan Accommodations For Students In Connecticut.

PA SB150

Further providing for title of the act, for findings and declaration of policy, for right to freedom from discrimination in employment, housing and public accommodation, for definitions, for unlawful discriminatory practices and for prohibition of certain real estate practices; providing for protection of religious exercise; and further providing for powers and duties of the commission, for educational program and for construction and exclusiveness of remedy.