State and Local Fair Housing Laws
Many states and localities have fair housing laws that expand upon the protections offered by the federal Fair Housing Act.
While the federal Fair Housing Act sets a baseline for protected classes, state and local governments often add additional protections. These may include protections based on sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, source of income, or other characteristics specific to the needs and priorities of the jurisdiction. Real estate professionals must be aware of both federal and local laws to ensure full compliance.
While the federal law doesn't protect against discrimination based on source of income, many states like Connecticut and Oregon do. A landlord in Oregon cannot refuse to rent to someone solely because they use a housing voucher.
Always check the specific state's fair housing laws. Look for differences from the federal law and memorize the additional protected classes in that state.
Related Terms
Practice Questions
Under Connecticut law, refusing to rent based on source of income is:
Oregon fair housing law adds which protected classes beyond federal law?
Under Oregon law, refusing to rent based on source of income is:
Some Indiana cities add protection for:
Michigan's Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act adds which protected class(es) beyond federal law?
Nevada fair housing law adds which protected classes beyond federal law?
New Jersey's Law Against Discrimination adds which protected classes beyond federal law?
Source of income discrimination in NYC housing is:
New York Human Rights Law protections include all federal classes plus:
Under the Fair Housing Act, which of the following is a protected class?
Related Concepts
Protected classes are groups of people who are legally shielded from discrimination based on specific characteristics.
Violating fair housing laws can lead to significant penalties, including fines, civil liability, and professional discipline.
Fair housing laws apply to a broad range of activities related to housing, including sale, rental, financing, and advertising.