Landlords-pets measure to get hearing Wednesday

Advertiser Staff

A bill that would make it illegal for landlords to prohibit pets in rental housing will be heard by the Senate Judiciary Committee at 9 a.m. Wednesday.

The hearing will be held in Room 229 of the State Capitol. Those wishing to testify are asked to submit written testimony by noon Tuesday. Call the Judiciary Committee staff at 586-7793 for more details.

Supporters of Senate Bill 2675 say animal lovers have a difficult time finding rental housing because of no-pet clauses imposed by condominium or other homeowner associations or landlords.

Opponents of the bill say it is unfair for government to force property owners to accept pets, and note that irresponsible pet owners could result in less desirable rental properties.

The bill originally would have made it illegal to discriminate against pet owners in all real-estate transactions but it was amended to address only rentals.