FFH laws

Federal Fair Housing Laws

Laws designed to create a single, unbiased housing market and to ensure equal opportunity in housing.

Civil Rights Act of 1866

Prohibits discrimination in the housing market based on race.

Executive Order No. 11063

Issued by President Kennedy to ban discrimination in federal housing.

Fair Housing Act of 1968

A national policy forbidding discrimination in the sale, rental, and financing of housing.

Jones vs. Mayer Supreme Court Decision of 1968

A ruling that found refusal to sell a home to an African American violated the Fair Housing Act.

Protected Classes

Groups of individuals protected from discrimination, including race, color, sex, and familial status.

Familial Status

Refers to individuals under 18 living with a parent or person with legal custody.

Handicap or Disability

A physical or mental impairment that substantially limits major life activities.

Equal Opportunity (E & O)

The principle ensuring everyone has the right to live where they choose.

Fair Housing Act Exemptions

Certain exemptions in housing laws, though race discrimination exceptions do not apply.

Discriminatory Advertising

Use of phrases or symbols in real estate advertising that suggest a preference for one group over another.

Citizenship Status

Factors relating to national origin or religious discrimination, which must be treated without bias.

Selective Use of Advertising Media

Choosing specific advertising channels that could lead to discriminatory outcomes.

The 1972 Amendment to The Fair Housing Act

Required the display of an equal opportunity poster in rental and sales offices.

The 1988 Amendment to The Fair Housing Act

Expanded protections to include familial status and handicap as protected classes.

Violations of Fair Housing Laws

Considered a misdemeanor unless violence is involved.

HUD

The Department of Housing and Urban Development responsible for enforcing fair housing laws.

Discriminatory Practices

Actions such as refusing to sell or rent based on race, gender, or religion.

Enforcement Agencies

Entities like the Office of Equal Opportunity and Federal Court that handle fair housing law violations.