Item HA 03 - Update to the Housing Choice Voucher Administrative Plan

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Administrative Plan 7/1/2025 Page 2-4 Providing Information to Families and Owners The PHA must take steps to ensure that families and owners are fully aware of all applicable civil rights laws. As part of the briefing process, the PHA must provide information to HCV applicant families about civil rights requirements and the opportunity to rent in a broad range of neighborhoods [24 CFR 982.301]. The Housing Assistance Payments (HAP) contract informs owners of the requirement not to discriminate against any person because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, familial status, or disability in connection with the contract. 2-I.C. DISCRIMINATION COMPLAINTS General Housing Discrimination Complaints If an applicant or participant believes that any family member has been discriminated against by the PHA or an owner, the family should advise the PHA. The PHA should make every reasonable attempt to determine whether the applicant’s or participant’s assertions have merit and take any warranted corrective action. In all cases, the PHA will advise the family that they may file a fair housing complaint if the family feels they have been discriminated against under the Fair Housing Act. SAHA Policy Applicants or participants who believe that they have been subject to unlawful discrimination may notify SAHA either orally or in writing. Within 14 calendar days of receiving the complaint, SAHA will investigate and attempt to remedy discrimination complaints made against SAHA. SAHA will also advise the family of their right to file a fair housing complaint with HUD’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO). The fair housing poster, posted in conspicuous and accessible locations in SAHA lobbies, will reference how to file a complaint with FHEO. SAHA will keep a record of all complaints, investigations, notices, and corrective actions in the client file and/or electronic records. (See Chapter 16.) Complaints under the Equal Access Final Rule [Notice PIH 2014-20] Notice PIH 2014-20 requires an articulated complaint process for allegations of discrimination under the Equal Access Final rule. The Equal Access Final Rule requires that PHAs provide equal access regardless of marital status, gender identity, or sexual orientation. The PHA will be informed on these obligations by the HUD Field Office or FHEO when an Equal Access complaint investigation begins. SAHA Policy Applicants or tenant families who believe that they have been subject to unlawful discrimination based on marital status, gender identity, or sexual orientation under the Equal Access Rule may notify SAHA either orally or in writing. SAHA will make a case note documenting the oral report. SAHA will attempt to remedy discrimination complaints made against SAHA and will conduct an investigation into all allegations of discrimination. EXHIBIT 1