WA city becomes first in nation to ‘ban the address’ for job applications

Spokane became the first city in the U.S. to adopt a “Ban the Address” ordinance following a historic 6-1 vote Monday, according to The Center Square.

Lawmakers hope the legislation will help homeless individuals get off the streets and into employment, as “ban the address” prevents employers from asking about a potential hire’s current housing status. 

Representatives from the Spokane Business Association, Spokane Community Against Racism, and Tenants Union of Washington State all testified in support alongside several residents.

Spokane first to adopt ‘ban the address’ ordinance

Critics of the ordinance argue that it is merely a symbolic gesture that will result in little more than positive press for lawmakers. Spokane Council member Michael Cathcart described the policy as “low-hanging fruit,” noting that it is insignificant compared to other proposals currently under consideration, according to The Center Square.

He joined Dillon in supporting the policy on Monday, but emphasized that it “pales in comparison to the millions” already spent on addressing the crisis.

Council member Jonathan Bingle, among the conservative minority with Cathcart, voted against the measure. Bingle compared the policy to a “camel’s nose in the tent,” an idiom that refers to a seemingly small request or compromise with unintended consequences.

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