Fair Housing for Survivors Act of 2026

Key Points

• This bill would change the Fair Housing Act to make it illegal to discriminate against people because they are survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, or sex trafficking. It ensures that being a victim of these crimes cannot be used as a legal reason to deny someone a place to live or a home loan.
• Landlords and banks would be prohibited from refusing to rent or sell to someone just because they have a history of abuse, have stayed in a domestic violence shelter, or have a protective order against an abuser. It also protects people who are perceived to be survivors, even if they have not officially reported the crimes.
• The policy aims to stop survivors from being evicted after a single incident of violence occurs at their home. Research shows that many survivors are trapped in dangerous situations because they cannot find new housing, and this law would remove the barriers that often lead to homelessness for victims of abuse.
• The bill adds new protections against coercion and threats. It would be a federal crime to use force or threats to interfere with a survivor's housing rights. This includes protecting vulnerable tenants from landlords who might try to pressure them for sexual favors in exchange for rent or housing security.
• It clarifies that the government can still create special housing programs specifically designed to help survivors. This means local and federal agencies can continue to set aside resources to help this group find safe, permanent housing without being accused of unfair treatment toward other groups.