Approved legislation bans hotels from discrimination based on residence

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The Common Council unanimously approved legislation Tuesday, that prohibits any city-licensed hotel, motel or other dwelling facility from discriminating against people based on a person's place of residence.

Alderwoman Lewis brought the legislation forward after she was refused lodging at a hotel last year. She was told the hotel's standing policy was to not rent rooms to anyone living within 30 miles of the hotel.

Operators say the practice is fairly common as hotels seek to avoid local renters who too often set up trafficking or prostitution spots or engage in other criminal activities from their rooms.

The legislation also requires licensees to provide training plans for educating employees to recognize and report human trafficking behaviors.

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