The Maine Human Rights Commission is being urged to take decisive action in a case involving a young man with a psychiatric disability who faced eviction from his disability housing. The case, presented during the commission's meeting on July 28, 2025, highlights serious allegations of discrimination and failure to provide necessary accommodations by the housing provider.

The young man, who had been living in the facility since January 2024, was involuntarily hospitalized in October of the same year due to behavior related to his disability. Following this, the housing provider obtained a temporary civil protection order against him, which led to the termination of his housing services in December 2024. The attorney representing the young man argues that the actions taken by the housing provider amounted to illegal eviction and discrimination, violating both the Fair Housing Act (FHA) and the Maine Human Rights Act (MHRA).

Key points raised during the meeting included the housing provider's failure to engage in meaningful discussions regarding accommodation requests made by the young man. Despite submitting two requests for clarification and a collaborative assessment of safety concerns, the housing provider did not offer any alternatives or explanations, leading to a perceived denial of rights.

The attorney emphasized that the housing provider's policy of barring residents from returning home after a temporary protection order is inherently discriminatory, particularly against individuals with psychiatric disabilities. This policy, which lacks individualized review, disproportionately impacts those who are already vulnerable and in need of support.

The commission was urged to recognize the broader implications of this case, as it reflects systemic issues within housing policies for individuals with disabilities. The attorney called for the commission to uphold civil rights and ensure that individuals like the young man are not denied access to housing and necessary accommodations.

As the commission deliberates, the outcome of this case could set a significant precedent for the treatment of individuals with disabilities in housing across Maine, reinforcing the importance of equitable access and the protection of civil rights in the community.