Broward County Human Rights Act: Veteran Status in Housing

Chapter 16½ of the Broward County Code, the Human Rights Act, lists "veteran or service member status" and "lawful source of income" among its protected classifications. For these two, the Act applies to housing only, not to employment or public accommodations. Who is protected. "Veteran status" means having served in any branch of the armed forces, including the reserves and Guard, and having been discharged or released "under conditions other than dishonorable". "Service member status" means serving on active duty, including the reserves and Guard. "Lawful source of income" expressly includes veterans' benefits, disability benefits and pensions, so a landlord may not turn away a tenant because the rent will be paid from VA compensation. Complaints. File a written complaint, under oath, with the county's Human Rights Section within one year of the act. It investigates, attempts conciliation and can take the case to a hearing; for a housing charge either side may instead elect a civil action within 20 days, and the County Attorney may bring it for the complainant at no cost. A private civil action is open for two years.