Phoenix no longer permits source of income to be used to keep people from obtaining housing in the city.

An amendment to the Phoenix City Code, which added “source of income” as a protected class to the city’s existing housing discrimination ordinance, became effective Thursday, April 6.

The amendment is designed to address housing discrimination against people who receive various kinds of sources of income, including but not limited to: child support, spousal support, foster care subsidies, rental assistance, security deposit or down payment assistance, income derived from Social Security or disability insurance, veterans' benefits, Housing Choice (Section 8) vouchers, and other forms of governmental assistance.

"This is a crucial step in creating a fair and equitable housing market in Phoenix, and no one should be dictated on where they live," said Councilman Sal DiCiccio.

"The source-of-income ordinance that was approved will ensure families have the opportunity to live in neighborhoods where they feel safe and have better school districts to raise their families."

Councilmember Carlos Garcia said the change was necessary "to protect people from housing discrimination. I am proud to have been part of this effort with my colleagues.

"While the implementation of this ordinance will not solve the affordable housing crisis people are facing now, it solidifies the city's responsibility to prevent housing inequality moving forward."

April is National Fair Housing Month and recognizes the federal Fair Housing Act, which was passed in 1968.

For free fair housing workshops or to file a complaint, call the Equal Opportunity Department at 602-262-7486.