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Fair Housing Act of 1968

2 amendmentstracked · Side-by-side comparison of previous and amended text

August 22, 1974

Housing and Community Development Act added sex as a protected class.

Previous

It is unlawful to discriminate in the sale or rental of housing on the basis of race, color, religion, or national origin.

Amended

It is unlawful to discriminate in the sale or rental of housing on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

September 13, 1988

Fair Housing Amendments Act added familial status and disability as protected classes and strengthened enforcement.

Previous

Protected classes include race, color, religion, sex, and national origin. Enforcement is primarily through private lawsuits and HUD conciliation.

Amended

Protected classes are expanded to include familial status and disability. HUD is authorized to bring administrative enforcement actions, and civil penalties of up to $100,000 may be imposed for pattern-or-practice violations.