Oakland City Council Bans Tenant Criminal Background Checks

Oakland has moved to become the first city in the state to ban landlords from investigating the criminal history of renters applying for both public and private housing.

The Fair Chance Housing Ordinance, which the City Council passed unanimously Tuesday evening, will prohibit landlords from rejecting a potential tenant because of a prior criminal conviction. Landlords will not be allowed to ask about an applicant's criminal history, or require the applicant to disclose it through a background check.

[...] The city will be able to fine landlords up to $1,000 for each violation of the Oakland ordinance.