Understanding Discrimination: Protections for Cook County Veterans
Discrimination against veterans is not allowed in Illinois.
What is the law?
- The Illinois Human Rights Act: It is illegal to treat someone different because of their military status or if they had an unfavorable discharge from the military.
- Cook County Human Rights Ordinance: It is illegal to discriminate against someone based on their military status.
Who is protected?
- Active military duty,
- Individuals part of the state or federal reserves, and
- Veterans
Examples of discrimination:
- Rejecting a rental application from a veteran because the landlord assumes such a tenant may manifest violent episodes of post-traumatic stress disorder
- Refusing to accept rent payments who uses the G.I. Bill’s housing allowance. This may also be considered "source of income discrimination."
- Denying an application because they think the tenant might be deployed during your lease. However, if the tenant is starts active military service and the landlord is notified time, they must allow you to end the lease without any extra fees. War and National Defense Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, 50 App. U.S.C.A. § § 501.
What options are available if a tenant has experienced discrimination based off their source of income?
- File a complaint with the Cook County Commission on Human Rights.
- Sue the landlord. A tenant may get a court order telling the landlord to stop discriminatory practices and claim damages and attorney fees.
- Seek legal assistance.
Veterans are protected from discrimination, ensuring they have fair opportunities in housing and are treated equally in the eyes of the law.
The above article provides information about legal issues but is not the same as legal advice. Legal advice is when a lawyer applies the law to your specific situation. The information in this article does not replace the advice or representation of a licensed attorney. Law Center for Better Housing cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information in this article and is not responsible for any consequences that may result from using it. You should consult with a licensed attorney to ensure the information in this article is appropriate for your specific situation. Using the information in this article does not create a relationship between Law Center for Better Housing and you as your attorney.