New Proposed California Bill Would Force Landlords To Allow Pets

How many times have we heard of a situation or been involved in one ourselves where a property owner has denied a rental to someone because they owned a pet? A California bill that will get a lot of attention this month would eliminate additional fees for common domesticated pets and make life easier for owners who are looking to sign a lease.

Like many Americans, I've been turned down before by someone who wouldn't rent to me because I had a dog. Most rental websites have verbiage attached to the listing that says something like, "No Pets Allowed." These current rules make apartment or house hunting extremely deflating for people who simply want to share their lives with their pets.

Last summer, a friend of mine found himself in a situation where he needed to find a new place fast. Three of the four properties he looked at had strict rules against pets. Ultimately, he was able to get into an apartment that allowed his dog, but not until he paid a pretty hefty deposit. It's estimated that as many as 70% of potential California renters own pets, according to online sources.

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This month, California lawmakers will be examining Bill AB 2216, which would eliminate additional fees for those who own common, domesticated pets, such as dogs and cats. The bill was introduced in early February by democratic San Francisco Assemblymember Matt Haney, according to ABC7.

These current rules make apartment or house hunting extremely deflating for people who simply want to share their lives with their pets.

I believe this bill would gain enormous support from the majority of Americans and would pass easily later in the year if pushed through.