A Review of HUD's Fair Housing Guidance in 2016

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) was very active in 2016 when it came to the Fair Housing Laws.  The below chronologically highlights HUD's actions in the Fair Housing arena this this past year:

• In April, HUD issued guidance on the use of criminal records in real estate transactions, noting blanket refusal of housing based on an arrest record constitutes as discrimination since a disproportionate amount of Americans with criminal histories are racial minorities.
• In September, HUD clarified the link between limited English proficiency and national origin, reinforcing how language-related housing restrictions violate the Fair Housing Act.
• Also in September, HUD published a rule that defines “quid pro quo” and “hostile environment harassment” as violations of the Fair Housing Act. This rule goes into effect, this Friday, Oct. 14, 2016.

The U.S. News and World Report has an interesting article on the above HUD activity and speculates where the department may head in the future.  To read the article, click here.