Criminal history can’t disqualify renters from housing in Jackson, new law says Updated Mar 10, 2021; Facebook Share JACKSON, MI – Renters in Jackson with a criminal history will soon be allowed to make their case against any potential rental application rejections, thanks to an ordinance passed by city council Tuesday night. Elected officials approved the “Fair Chance Housing Ordinance,” 5-1, during the council’s March 9 virtual meeting. The new policy prohibits landlords and rental agencies from asking renters about their criminal history during the initial screening process, postpones a background check until a conditional lease is offered and prevents a landlord from denying applications based only on criminal history unless it would impact the others’ safety or property. Tenants are also allowed to show evidence of rehabilitation prior to a final denial.