1. (a) When an entity selects an applicant from the waitlist and determines that the applicant is eligible for the housing opportunity, or upon receipt of an application, at the entity’s discretion, the entity may elect to screen applicants. Entities may identify screening criteria in accordance with the approved tenant selection plan.
2. (b) Entities may consider extenuating circumstances in evaluating information obtained during the screening process to assist in determining the suitability of an applicant for a housing opportunity. An entity may adopt a policy to consider extenuating circumstances that would allow acceptance of an applicant whom the entity would otherwise reject, but an entity shall not have a policy to consider extenuating circumstances to reject an applicant who would otherwise be eligible.
3. (c) If screening criteria is used, entities shall apply screening criteria consistently to all applicants.
4. (d) Screening shall comply with all applicable federal, state and local fair housing and civil rights laws.

(Effective February 4, 2025)