HB1390 Summary

• Prohibits discrimination in rental housing based on participation in housing assistance programs (including Section 8 vouchers) or requirements related to such programs.

• Makes it unlawful for landlords, real estate brokers, or property owners to refuse to rent, discriminate in terms/conditions, steer renters away from properties, or advertise "no Section 8" restrictions based on housing assistance status.

• Allows landlords to verify income sources and evaluate creditworthiness in a commercially reasonable manner, but not to reject applicants solely because they receive housing assistance.

• Establishes civil remedies allowing aggrieved persons to sue in district court within one year for injunctive relief, with potential fines up to $500 and attorney's fees recovery.

• Directs the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission to produce educational materials publicizing the prohibition against housing assistance-based discrimination.