Civil Rights Lawsuit Exposes ‘Constructive Eviction’ and Illegal Voucher Denial by Calif. Landlord Amid Calls for DOJ Action Against Violent Subsidized Housing Slumlords

• Gov. Code § 12955(a) – Discrimination based on source of income
• Gov. Code § 12955(c) – Discriminatory statements regarding source of income
• Gov. Code § 12955(k) – Denial or unavailability of housing based on income
• Civ. Code § 51 (Unruh Act) – Denial of full and equal accommodations in a business establishment

The lawsuit asserts that rejecting Jefferson’s voucher after she separated from her husband—and after she provided notice of her rights—constitutes a direct violation of California law amended under SB 329:

“[S]ource of income” includes “federal housing assistance vouchers issued under Section 8 of the United States Housing Act of 1937.” (Gov. Code § 12955(p))

Quotes that Expose Intent

• “We have decided NOT to participate in this program.” – Defendant Garrison’s handwritten note on Jefferson’s door (Complaint ¶ 24)
• “No need to send any more paperwork…” – Email rejecting voucher use (Complaint ¶ 21)

These communications go beyond policy—they could be viewed as evidence of intent to discriminate, forming the factual basis for punitive damages under both FEHA and the Unruh Act.