The Brief

California law makes it illegal for landlords to refuse to rent to people who participate in rental assistance programs like Section 8, but tenant advocates say the practice remains widespread in Los Angeles County.

A recent investigation by the Housing Rights Initiative found that up to 70% of L.A.-area landlords turn away tenants who receive federal housing subsidies. And there’s been a flurry of recent lawsuits, including a sweeping case filed last fall by the Housing Rights Initiative. The suit names more than 200 landlords, including several major real estate companies.

"Finding housing discrimination in Los Angeles is like finding rain in a rainstorm," said Aaron Carr, executive director of the Housing Rights Initiative, which investigated landlords across the city.

More than 90,000 L.A. County households rely on the Housing Choice Voucher program — broadly known as Section 8 — the largest rental assistance program for low-income families, seniors and people with disabilities to afford housing in the private market.

Experts say it’s crucial for tenants and landlords to understand their rights and responsibilities.

Here are their tips:

1. Know the law

Since January 2020, California law prohibits landlords from discriminating against tenants based on their source of income, including Section 8 vouchers or other housing subsidies.

"The law regarding source of income protections has changed," said Michelle Uzeta, deputy director at the Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund. "Landlords cannot refuse to rent to someone, charge higher deposits, or treat them differently simply because they use a Section 8 voucher."

This applies to private landlords, property management companies, and corporations that rent residential property in California. The only exception is homeowners who live in their unit and rent out a single room, according to the California Civil Rights Department.

Local landlord groups claim the changes in law have not been communicated clearly, and some housing providers are unaware of their responsibilities to prospective Section 8 tenants.

“Ignorance is not an excuse for breaking the law,” said Carr. “It’s a landlord’s job to learn their legal responsibilities and conduct business accordingly.”

Advocates encourage prospective tenants who encounter potential discrimination to send information about the law to landlords — including this FAQ — to remove any confusion about legal responsibilities.

"Advocate directly for yourself,” said Rodney Leggett, attorney with Housing Rights Center. “Tell them directly Section 8 discrimination is illegal. Ask them directly to accept your voucher. If they blow you off, or just ignore you, that might be a denial of your voucher in and of itself."

2. Document everything

Experts recommend that voucher holders document all interactions with potential landlords. If speaking by phone, take notes on who you spoke with, what exactly they said, how you found the listing and more. When possible, get things in writing. Save any listings, email conversations and text conversations. Applicants should ask landlords directly if they’ll accept Section 8, but only after confirming the housing is otherwise available, advocates said.

"Voucher holders should be sure to get confirmation that a listing is still available before they mention they are a voucher holder," advises Jacqueline Burbank of Inner-City Law Center. "Having these conversations over text also gives you a record of what was said. It is hard to prove details of phone conversations."

If a landlord responds with "no Section 8" in writing, they've provided clear evidence of illegal discrimination.

3. Understand financial requirements

Landlords are allowed to screen potential tenants for income eligibility, but they have to calculate it differently for voucher holders.

Section 8 participants cover a portion of their rent equivalent to 30% of their income, and the federal government covers the rest. The program is funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, or HUD.

So if a landlord requires tenants to earn three times the monthly rent, a 2024 California law says they can only apply that requirement to the part the tenant actually pays, not the entire amount.

That means that if the rent is $2,000 and the tenant’s portion is $500, the landlord can only require the tenant to show a monthly income of $1,500.

4. Know your alternative screening options

Credit history should not be a barrier for voucher holders.

If landlords plan to check credit, they must give applicants with housing subsidies the opportunity to present alternative proof of their ability to pay rent. This could include documentation of the receipt of public benefits, bank statements or pay stubs.

Landlords must consider these alternatives instead of relying solely on credit reports, according to the California Civil Rights Department.

5. Seek out housing providers who welcome Section 8

Not all landlords resist Section 8.

"There are some housing providers who actively market to people who utilize Section 8," Uzeta said. "Look for places that want you."

Renters can find those landlords on websites like affordablehousing.com, or check listings on other rental databases for language like “Section 8 accepted.”

Still, many landlords are wary of working with Section 8 or other government subsidy programs, because they believe there’s too much red tape. To accept Section 8 vouchers, private landlords have to have their properties inspected and approved by HUD.

“Working with these housing authorities is like being forced to eat at a restaurant that has poor service and a C-rating,” Dan Yukelson, executive director of the Apartment Association of Greater Los Angeles, said. “This makes housing providers, particularly the majority who are independent owners and lack resources to handle the complexities of a poorly run government bureaucracy, reluctant to deal with these government agencies.”

Landlords who are interested in participating in Section 8 can contact their local housing authority for information about the program's benefits and requirements.

6. Recognize the advantages for landlords

Landlords who accept Section 8 receive guaranteed payments directly from the housing authority.

"It's really shocking to me that more landlords do not realize that this is guaranteed rent money," Uzeta said. "The government is not going to be late on your rent payment."

Tenants with Section 8 vouchers also undergo background checks by housing authorities and have a strong incentive to comply with lease terms to maintain their assistance.

Yukelson said many landlords jump at opportunities to house voucher holders.

“Most housing providers would welcome government-backed rent and the chance to assist a family or veteran who is in need of housing,” he said.

7. Report discrimination when it happens

Report Section 8 discrimination right away to the California Civil Rights Department.

Voucher holders should notify their advisor at the housing authority or other agency overseeing their voucher program. Advisors may contact landlords directly to advocate for their clients, Leggett said. Prospective renters are also encouraged to call pro-bono legal support organizations like the Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles, Inner City Law Center, Housing Rights Initiative and Housing Rights Center.

Landlords found in violation could face significant penalties, including monetary damages.

8. Connect with advocacy groups for support and training

Several organizations across Los Angeles provide resources for tenants and landlords navigating Section 8.

Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles, Inner-City Law Center, Housing Rights Initiative, Housing Rights Center and the Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund all provide resources for voucher holders facing discrimination. They offer free legal advice, representation and self-advocacy workshops.

The California Civil Rights Department also offers online training on source of income discrimination for landlords and renters. For landlords, regular fair-housing training can prevent costly legal issues.

“We encourage rental housing providers to take a Fair Housing class annually or at least every two years to keep up with the changing regulatory landscape,” Yukelson said. “This is not a 'follow your gut instinct business,' but a 'know the law' kind of business.”

"Galentine's Day" was first introduced to us in 2010 on the television series Parks and Recreation. Since then, it has become so deeply embedded in popular culture that I bet most of you didn’t know you should be thanking Leslie Knope for “only the best day of the year.”

Well, there has never been a better time than now to focus on the love for the ladies in your life. Although really, it's a day about celebrating those you can always count on, no matter the gender.

Read on for ideas on how to celebrate Galentine's Day in Los Angeles, which traditionally falls on Feb. 13, (but this year is beginning as early as Feb. 5). 

Rooftop cinema screening

NBC's Parks and Rec, the series which created Galentine's Day

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Courtesy NBC

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Dig into the real story behind Galentine’s Day at Rootop Cinema Club in DTLA on Thursday, Feb. 5. It’s an entire mini-marathon of Parks and Recreation, the show that started it all. Tickets begin at $35 per person and include a love seat with fireside heater and a hot chocolate for you and your bestie. As the website says, "Valentine’s Day is for lovers — but Galentine’s Day? That’s for legends."

When and How: Reserve your tickets here for the 6:30 p.m. screening.

Galentine’s dinner under the stars

Oysters and champagne anyone? At Mother of Pearl in DTLA

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Michael Kleinberg

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Courtesy Mother of Pearl

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Set the stage for a night of pure fabulousness with a rooftop dinner at Mother of Pearl, the oyster and champagne bar from Michelin-starred Chef Joshua Gil. The four-course prix fixe begins with a caviar bruschetta and small plates for the table, which is a perfect time to order a round of mini tinis. Menu highlights include tuna ribbons with wild baby fennel and salsa verde, steak Diane with pommes puree, and a strawberry tiramisu to finish. Since Mother of Pearl is part of the multi-level nightclub and restaurant space Level 8 in Downtown Los Angeles, your night doesn’t need to end with dinner.

When and How: Reserve via OpenTable for Friday, Feb. 13, beginning at 5 p.m. 

Afternoon tea

Visit the iconic Culver Hotel in Culver City for a one-day-only Galentine’s Tea that will give you a reason to feel your best. The experience includes artisanal tea, finger sandwiches, and heart-shaped sweets along with bite-sized petit fours. Dress to impress as a festive ensemble will earn you a complimentary glass of pink bubbly. The entire tea time will be accompanied by live music.

When and How: Galentine’s tea is served from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 15. Reserve on OpenTable. The cost is $75 per person.
 

Après Surf Lounge

You get your own personal firepit at Viceroy Santa Monica

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Courtesy Viceroy Santa Monica

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Gather up to six of your girls for a poolside cabana with everything you need for a fun celebration. A night out at the Après Surf Lounge at the Viceroy Santa Monica includes a curated cheese board, tabletop s’mores, and a bottle of something sparkling. There are also table topic cards and a build-your-own bouquet activity to keep things festive while you share laughs around your personal fire pit.

When and How: Galentine’s Day cabanas are available on both Friday, Feb. 13 and Saturday, Feb. 14, beginning at $230 for up to 6 guests. Reserve on their website.

Line Dancing with your Ladies

The Galentine's Day Bootloose event happens on Feb 13

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Courtesy Desert 5 Spot

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There’s nothing like line dancing to spark a night of liveliness between friends. On Friday, Feb. 13, Desert 5 Spot in Hollywood is hosting a Galentine’s Day Bootloose with free line dancing lessons led by Mike & Diana. They’re also extending Desert Hour drink specials until 9 p.m., which includes $6 beer and wine, $9 cocktails, and 2-for-one $10 tacos.

When and How: RSVP for your Friday, Feb. 13 bootloose on the hour beginning at 7 p.m. here. RSVPs aren’t necessary if you won’t be line dancing, but Galentine’s Day is not about putting baby in the corner. Let your inner cowgirl roam free!

It’s no secret that childcare is expensive — and unaffordable — for many families. In L.A. County, costs for childcare take up, on average, nearly 20% of a family’s household income.

But in papers published last week, researchers at the University of California and Stanford say a solution is possible — and that a universal childcare system can be implemented in California, the most populous state in the country.

“It is not easy to fix the childcare market. It requires investments of resources … but it is feasible,” said Neale Mahoney, a professor of economics and director of the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research. “I'm optimistic that if we focus on this issue, then we can take big strides.”

Last year, New Mexico became the first state to offer universal childcare, and local jurisdictions like San Francisco and Alameda County have moved to infuse money into their childcare systems.

Economists at Stanford estimate it would cost the state between $12 to $21 billion a year to implement a universal childcare system for children 3 and under. The researchers say the investment could lead to 100,000 mothers joining the workforce, which could create up to $23 billion in GDP for the state.

“What happens fairly immediately from a program that provides more robust childcare coverage is that you have more parents working in particular, you have more moms able to work, and of course, that contributes right back to the economy in the form of taxes,” said Chloe Gibbs, a policy fellow at the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research.

Researchers at UC Irvine and UC Berkeley, in a parallel paper, said the current childcare infrastructure needs to be changed to make a universal system possible and made a series of recommendations. That includes combining a confusing system of 14 different funding streams for subsidized child care.

“ It shouldn't be on providers and families to sort through what they're eligible for and the regulations of all of them,” said Jade Jenkins, associator professor of education policy at UC Irvine.

Where will the money come from? 

In New Mexico, the state’s universal childcare program is paid through the state’s sovereign wealth funds supported from oil and gas revenues. While California doesn’t have that sort of dedicated funding stream, Gibbs says there are other options.

Gibbs said some states have used lottery funds for childcare, or implemented so-called “sin taxes” — taxes on products like cigarettes or alcohol, while others have also created endowment funds. “Then of course, there’s the redeployment of dollars that are currently spent on other things,” she said.

Currently, the state has set aside $7.5 billion for subsidized childcare in the proposed budget, including more than $5 billion from the state’s general fund. That amounts to about 2% of the state’s budget.

Learn more about the child care system

• California's childcare sector is already fragile. Can it survive the next natural disaster? Preschools have been closing in L.A. County. There also are not enough childcare providers, and those who are in business are chronically underpaid.
• San Francisco gave child care workers a massive raise. Is it a model for LA? Three years after the city's pay plan launched, those involved say it's been transformative. Some educators said the additional pay is keeping them in their jobs, and making a future in the profession viable.
• New Mexico will be the first state to offer universal child care. What could that mean for California? New Mexico has been offering free childcare for families who make up to 400% of the federal poverty level, and starting in November, it removed the income eligibility requirements — making the program universal for families.

The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously Tuesday to approve an $843 million homelessness spending plan that includes nearly $200 million in reductions to programs and services in the next budget year.

Among those programs is Pathway Home, which helps move people from encampments into temporary housing. The county reduced funding for that program by $92 million, which will shrink it from 20 project sites to seven, officials said.

Supervisors also approved $105 million in reductions to other programs, including large cuts to street outreach teams, homelessness prevention programs and other supportive services.

County officials said they had to reduce spending in order to cover the rising costs of operating shelter beds and the loss of tens of millions in temporary state and federal funding, including some COVID-19 relief dollars.

“With federal neglect and state cuts, we have to do more with less,” Supervisor Lindsey Horvath told LAist. “And we will.”

The county’s new Department of Homeless Services and Housing has been warning about the looming shortfall since July. County officials solicited input on how to fill an initial $303 million gap.

Since then, the department adjusted the county’s homelessness spending plan, after finding some one-time state grants and cost-saving measures.

The budget year starts July 1.

Some funding restored

Last month, local homeless service providers urged county officials to restore all of the more than $200 million in proposed reductions to programs and services. Some supervisors raised concerns about specific cuts.

Since then, new revenue projections show the county stands to bring in $21 million more through Measure A than originally anticipated.

Measure A is a sales tax ordinance, approved by L.A. County voters in 2024, that funds homeless services and affordable housing initiatives. It is expected to generate about $1 billion annually, but exact revenues fluctuate with consumer spending.

The county’s slightly rosier revenue projections allowed the homeless department to roll back a fraction of the proposed reductions.

“It’s not a windfall and it doesn’t solve every challenge, but it does give us the ability to restore important programs that were on the chopping block,” Supervisor Janice Hahn said.

The board voted to use much of that $21 million to restore funding for two dozen full-time outreach workers and about 100 shelter beds that were previously on the chopping block.

The plan approved Tuesday also calls for $5 million in Measure A revenue to partially restore funding for interim housing in Long Beach, Pasadena and Glendale. It restored more than $1 million to operate family solution centers — hubs to connect unhoused families with services — and about $500,000 for a program that helps military veterans access government benefits.

Supervisor Holly Mitchell said she wishes Pathway Home funding could be maintained. She said it’s been crucial for helping people living in RV encampments in her district, which spans from Koreatown to much of the South Bay.

"These restorations don't expand encampment resolution operations,” Mitchell said Tuesday. “The services with the greatest impact in the Second District remain reduced, and the current plan does not replace what was cut."

County homelessness officials told supervisors the 100 shelter beds they saved will be prioritized for people living in encampments and will help make up for cuts to Pathway Home.

"The reduction to Pathway Home is not a reduced commitment to encampment resolution,” L.A. County Department of Homeless Services and Housing director Sarah Mahin said Tuesday. “It’s a recognition that it was built on one-time funding and we need to expand strategies to include more cost-effective resolution solutions."

New oversight push

The supervisors also voted 5-0 Tuesday to approve a new motion focused on accountability in homeless service contracting. The motion by Horvath and Kathryn Barger directs the homelessness department to work with the county auditor-controller to create strict oversight procedures for contracts, including random site visits, performance monitoring and provisions for termination.

They said the goal is to prevent the mismanagement that has plagued the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, and the fraud that has resulted in recent arrests. Last month, federal authorities arrested Alex Soofer, director of a nonprofit called Abundant Blessings, on suspicion of embezzling tens of millions in dollars meant to serve unhoused Angelenos. Soofer pleaded not guilty to the charges this week.

"Public dollars intended to address homelessness have gone unaccounted for under LAHSA," Horvath said. “That is unacceptable and it ends now with the county.”

Last year, the board voted to divert more than $300 million in county homelessness dollars away from LAHSA and administer the funds itself with a new homelessness department.

“As the department launches, every contract, every dollar, and every outcome must withstand scrutiny,” Horvath told LAist in a statement. “We don’t have resources to waste or time to lose in addressing the homelessness crisis.”

Barger described instances of fraud within the homeless services sector as “moral failures” that cannot be tolerated.

“They represent theft from the most vulnerable people in our community,” she said.

She also argued that ethical service providers “should not have their reputations destroyed by the criminal actions of a few bad actors.”

Barger told fellow supervisors at Tuesday’s meeting it’s their responsibility to monitor how county homelessness dollars are being spent — and to defund programs that aren’t generating results.

“Setting the budget is the easy part,” Barger said. “We have to see results. And if we don’t, we have to have a debate at this board: is that the best use of these resources?”

The department must report back to the board in 60 days with their full plan for monitoring contractors and preventing fraud and misuse of public funds.

Auditor-Controller Oscar Valdez told supervisors his office would submit a plan to county homelessness officials Tuesday.