S.B. 122 Summary

• Prohibits discrimination in rental housing based on participation in housing assistance programs (including Section 8 vouchers) or related requirements, including in property advertisements and real estate transactions.

• Defines illegal practices such as refusing to rent to voucher holders, discriminating in rental terms, steering applicants away from properties, and using discriminatory language in listings or applications.

• Preserves landlords' right to verify income sources and evaluate creditworthiness and financial stability in a commercially reasonable manner.

• Allows aggrieved persons to file civil actions in district court within one year of discrimination, with potential remedies including injunctions, fines up to $500, and reasonable attorney's fees.

• Requires the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission to produce materials and publicize the prohibition against housing assistance program discrimination; effective upon approval.