The reason for non-discrimination of military personnel is obvious … if reservists, National Guard or other persons in the military cannot find any place to live, then most military personnel would be homeless or living solely with relatives or friends.

Our country depends on our troops to defend the nation, and our servicemen and servicewomen should not be denied housing just because they have chosen to serve their country. Renting to those in our armed forces is part of supporting our troops and being a good citizen.

So in 2007, the Washington Law Against Discrimination was amended to prohibit discrimination based on veteran/military status in employment, housing, public accommodations, as well as other areas covered by the act.

As a landlord or housing provider, what should we know about veteran and military status discrimination?

With large numbers of veterans returning from Iraq, Afghanistan, and other places where the American military serves, it important to protect these individuals from harmful, preconceived and stereotyped notions about veterans and people serving in the military.

A housing provider, landlord or property manager must not negatively consider veteran or military status when making housing-related decisions. In addition, housing policies and practices must not have an adverse impact on veterans or those in the military by preventing renting or selling to those currently in the military.

Many veterans are protected by the fair housing law prohibiting discrimination against disability. As a result of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, a number of veterans are returning to the United State with disabilities. And these disabilities are not only physical, but also include brain trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, and cognitive challenges.

Even though people with these conditions do not show physical signs of injury, these conditions are considered disabilities under most fair housing laws. Housing providers should not discriminate against individuals returning home after serving their country due to disability.

In addition, veterans and service members may request reasonable accommodations for their disabling conditions. The usual procedures for reasonable accommodations apply ... continued.