Spokane, Washington Passes “Ban the Address” Ordinance

Spokane, Washington’s City Council passed Ordinance C36666, titled “Ban the Address” which was signed into law by the city’s Mayor. The Ordinance takes effect May 25, 2025.

Billed as being the first of its kind in the country, the Ordinance expands the city’s already existing law addressing criminal record use by employers by preventing discrimination against an applicant based on the address provided during the application process. For example, employers cannot reject or disqualify an individual solely because they do not have a fixed or regular residence, or they are homeless or unhouse, or because they live on the street, in a shelter or in a temporary residence.

The only exception is if the housing status has a bona fide and legitimate relation to the primary duties of the job. In this scenario, the employer must still ensure use of the information is in compliance with state and federal laws as well.

Impacted employers should work to review their hiring criteria and information collection process to ensure compliance with this new ordinance.