MassHousing presents Housing Protections for Victims of Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault and Stalking

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) Reauthorization Act of 2013 extended protections against housing discrimination or eviction due to domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, or sexual assault to tenants in federally assisted housing. In 2016, HUD issued the final rule in relation to the VAWA reauthorization which further outlined the responsibilities of housing providers. Additionally, in 2013 the Commonwealth of Massachusetts passed “An Act Relative to Housing Rights for Victims of Domestic Violence, Rape, Sexual Assault and Stalking” which provides housing protections to all tenants in the Commonwealth.

This full day training offered by MassHousing that provides a comprehensive overview of the following:

• Outline the differences between the protections provided by VAWA and those provided by the state law and discuss documentation requirements and other practical issues. Protections afforded to victims under fair housing laws will also be discussed.
• Why domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking is relevant to housing and housing operations
• The Legal Framework and Housing Provider’s Obligations Throughout The Occupancy Cycle (Tenant Selection, Residency, Eviction)
• Practical approaches/ideas to situations that arise throughout the occupancy cycle

The training looks at both federal and state law and outlines the housing protections for survivors of Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking as well as the responsibilities of housing providers. While the content was largely designed for housing providers, it is also a great resource for service providers, particularly those who engage in housing stabilization or advocacy for survivors.

If you have any questions about this content or would like more information about attending, please contact Kara Pillsbury Johnson at kpillsbury@masshousing.com.