A Landmark Victory: Buffalo City Council Unanimously Approves 'Source of Income' Housing Protection

In a resounding victory for housing equity and tenant rights, the Buffalo City Council has unanimously passed a pivotal amendment to its housing discrimination ordinance. This groundbreaking measure adds 'source of income' as a protected class, marking a significant stride towards ensuring fair access to housing for all residents.

The 9-0 vote on Tuesday signifies a collective commitment to dismantle discriminatory practices that have long hindered individuals and families from securing safe and stable homes.

With this amendment, landlords in Buffalo will no longer be permitted to deny housing to prospective tenants solely based on their lawful income source. This includes crucial forms of assistance such as Section 8 housing vouchers, Social Security benefits, disability payments, and veteran's assistance.

Advocates, including Housing Opportunities Made Equal (HOME), have tirelessly championed this cause, highlighting the systemic barriers faced by vulnerable populations.

The previous lack of 'source of income' protection often left individuals, particularly those reliant on federal and state aid, in a precarious position, struggling to find landlords willing to accept their rental subsidies despite having a consistent and guaranteed income stream.

The passage of this ordinance is a culmination of years of advocacy and persistent effort.

Previous attempts to introduce similar protections had stalled, but a renewed push, bolstered by comprehensive data and compelling testimonies, finally resonated with the council members. This success aligns Buffalo with other forward-thinking municipalities in Western New York, including Amherst, Kenmore, Lockport, and Niagara Falls, which have already implemented similar protections.

Council Member Mitch Nowakowski, a key proponent, underscored the importance of the amendment: “We are talking about making sure that the most vulnerable in our community have an opportunity to secure safe and stable housing, regardless of where their income comes from.” He emphasized that the ordinance does not dictate rental prices or prevent landlords from conducting standard background and credit checks.

Instead, it focuses squarely on eliminating prejudice against legitimate income sources.

Greg Tucker, president and CEO of HOME, praised the council's decision, calling it a “momentous day for housing equity in Buffalo.” He pointed out that while the law applies to all lawful income, its primary impact will be felt by those utilizing rental assistance programs, who often face the steepest hurdles in the housing market.

The next crucial step is for Mayor Byron W.

Brown to sign the amendment into law, a move widely anticipated by housing advocates and the community at large. Once enacted, Buffalo will join a growing number of cities and states nationwide that recognize the fundamental right to housing, free from discrimination based on how one earns or receives their living.

This ordinance represents more than just a legal change; it's a statement of Buffalo's values – a commitment to inclusivity, fairness, and creating a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, starting with a place to call home.