Baltimore County Council Passes HOME Act

BALTIMORE COUNTY, MD — Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski applauded the passage of the HOME Act Monday night. By a 4-3 vote, the Baltimore County Council passed the HOME Act, which stands for Housing Opportunities Made Equal.

The HOME Act prohibits landlords to refuse to rent to tenants based on their source of income. A job, public assistance program, inheritance or property sale could be sources of income.

"Today is a major step forward for Baltimore County," Olszewski said in a statement Monday night. "I thank the County Council for recognizing that discrimination in any form is wrong and for working with me in taking this critical step to fulfill our legal and moral obligations."

The federal government ordered Baltimore County to pass the bill to make up for past housing and zoning policies that led to significant racial and socioeconomic segregation. If it did not pass, it would have to be introduced every calendar year until it passes, according to a legally binding agreement with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

According to WBAL, those who voted against the HOME Act were Councilman David Marks, who represents Perry Hall and Towson; Councilman Todd Crandell of Dundalk and Essex; and Councilman Wade Kach, whose district spans northern Baltiore County.

Said Olzewski: "Together we will continue to expand economic opportunity, improve equity, and build a better Baltimore County."

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