On April 12, 2006, Governor Jon M. Huntsman signed a proclamation of April as Fair Housing Month in Utah. The signing of the proclamation serves to recall the benefits to everyone of obeying fair housing laws in their professional practice in the housing industry.

This marks the 38th year that April has been celebrated as Fair Housing Month. This year's Fair Housing theme is: "Fair Housing, It's Not an Option - It's the Law". HUD's office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity investigates complaints of discrimination related to housing for reasons of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status or disability. The Utah State Antidiscrimination and Labor Division's Fair Housing Office works with HUD to investigate complaints, and prosecute offending parties. Last year 59 complaints were received in Utah, of which 18 were went to mediation and settlement, and 5 are being prosecuted. Persons who believe they are a victim of discrimination should call (800) 222-1238 or write to pparsell@utah.gov.

Landlords and other parties can learn more about Fair Housing by attending the Utah Apartment Association (http://www.uaahq.org/events.htm). Fair Housing Conference and Trade Show, on April 26, 2006.

Other government entities signing proclamations during Fair Housing month in Utah include: Salt Lake City, Ogden City, Park City, Orem City and Salt Lake County.

Witnessing the Governors proclamation signing were Dwight Peterson, Field Office Director for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Chris Nguyen, State Division for Services for Persons with Disabilities; Max Ryujin, Ogden Board of Realtors; Paul Smith, Executive Director for the Utah Apartment Association; Elena Bensor, Utah Antidiscrimination and Labor Division; Jenifer Ewoniuk, Board Chair for the Utah Apartment Association; Sherrie Hayashi, Executive Director of the Utah Antidiscrimination and Labor Division; Michele Hutchins, Equal Opportunity Specialist with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development; Gordon Walker, Director of the State Office of Community & Arts; Leslie Schaar, Attorney, Disability Law Center; and Lee Ellertson, Commissioner for the State Labor Commission.