SENATOR KEHOE’S BILL WOULD ALLOW RENTERS TO DISPLAY POLITICAL SIGNS

SAN DIEGO – Sen. Christine Kehoe (D-San Diego) introduced legislation today that protects tenant rights by allowing them to display political signs in the windows of their rented apartments or homes.

“Every Californian’s political views are a cornerstone of our democracy, and renters deserve the right to express their views just as much as homeowners,” said Kehoe. “Whether it’s posting a sign supporting a candidate or a neighborhood issue there is no reason to continue this ‘second class’ status for the 40 percent of Californians who are renters.”

SB 337 would allow tenants to post campaign signs for candidates, initiatives, recalls, referendums, and legislative votes in the windows of their apartments and homes. Current law allows residents in mobile home parks, homeowners’ associations, and common interest developments to display political signs, but such protections don’t apply to renters.

SB 337 enjoys the support of the American Civil Liberties Union. Kehoe introduced similar legislation in 2006 but it was vetoed by then-Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger.