House Resolution 4

A RESOLUTION DESIGNATING THE MONTH OF APRIL AS "FAIR HOUSING MONTH" IN MISSISSIPPI, TO BE OBSERVED ANNUALLY, AND ENCOURAGING ALL RESIDENTS OF MISSISSIPPI TO SUPPORT AND ASSIST IN MAINTAINING FAIR HOUSING.

WHEREAS, the State of Mississippi is committed to providing housing options to persons with disabilities and families that include members who are persons with disabilities to be provided in the most integrated setting appropriate; and

WHEREAS, the State of Mississippi is further committed to developing a comprehensive plan to address needs, service options, opportunities and service settings appropriate for persons with disabilities and families that include members who are persons with disabilities so they may participate in community life to the greatest extent that is possible and that they desire; and

WHEREAS, the Institute for Disability Studies at the University of Southern Mississippi and the Southeast Mississippi Legal Services, advocates for decent, affordable housing for all and for elimination of racism and exploitation in housing, have joined to revitalize discussion, education and outreach regarding fair housing; and

WHEREAS, the Institute for Disability Studies at the University of Southern Mississippi and the Southeast Mississippi Legal Services seek to ensure that all members of our community are aware of and educated about fair housing laws; and

WHEREAS, public discussion of fair housing practices and awareness of laws and regulations regarding fair housing serve to counter discrimination in housing; and

WHEREAS, all residents of this state benefit from fair housing practices; and

WHEREAS, fair housing laws provide the opportunity for all citizens to reside in decent safe housing, free from discrimination; and

WHEREAS, it is essential that all Mississippians be aware of the need for and benefits of fair housing practices; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the House of Representatives to promote education and awareness of fair housing laws:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby designate the month of April as "Fair Housing Month" in Mississippi, to be observed annually, and encourage all residents of Mississippi to support and assist in maintaining fair housing practices throughout this state.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to the Institute for Disability Studies at the University of Southern Mississippi, Southeast Mississippi Legal Services and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.