Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988

Definition

The Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988 is a significant piece of legislation that expanded the protections of the Fair Housing Act of 1968, prohibiting discrimination in housing based on disability and familial status. This act aimed to ensure equal housing opportunities for individuals with disabilities and families with children, reinforcing the commitment to fair housing practices across the United States.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988 added protections specifically for individuals with disabilities, requiring reasonable accommodations in housing policies and practices.
2. Familial status protection means that landlords cannot discriminate against families with children under 18 years old.
3. The act increased enforcement mechanisms by allowing individuals to file complaints with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) or through federal court.
4. This legislation also mandated that multifamily dwellings be designed to be accessible to individuals with disabilities, setting standards for new construction.
5. Violators of the Fair Housing Amendments Act can face significant fines and penalties, emphasizing the seriousness of compliance with fair housing laws.

Review Questions

• How did the Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988 enhance the protections offered by the original Fair Housing Act of 1968?
  • The Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988 built upon the original Fair Housing Act by adding specific protections against discrimination based on disability and familial status. It recognized the need for reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities and explicitly prohibited discrimination against families with children. This expansion reflects a growing awareness of the diverse needs within society and underscores the importance of providing equitable access to housing for all individuals.
• Discuss the implications of the accessibility requirements mandated by the Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988 on new construction.
  • The accessibility requirements mandated by the Fair Housing Amendments Act necessitate that new multifamily dwellings incorporate design features that enable use by individuals with disabilities. This includes accessible entrances, wide doorways, and features that facilitate mobility within units. The implications extend beyond compliance; they foster inclusive communities where individuals with disabilities can live independently and participate fully in society. This shift towards accessibility represents a critical step in reducing barriers and enhancing quality of life for those affected.
• Evaluate how the enforcement mechanisms established by the Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988 contribute to addressing housing discrimination in contemporary society.
  • The enforcement mechanisms established by the Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988 play a crucial role in combating housing discrimination today. By allowing individuals to file complaints with HUD or pursue legal action in federal court, the act empowers victims to seek justice and hold violators accountable. Additionally, increased fines for noncompliance serve as a deterrent against discriminatory practices. This framework not only provides recourse for those affected but also promotes a culture of awareness around fair housing rights, ultimately contributing to more equitable access to housing across diverse communities.

Related terms

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA):

A civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including jobs, schools, transportation, and all public and private places that are open to the general public.

Housing Discrimination: Unfair treatment in housing based on characteristics such as race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or familial status, which is illegal under the Fair Housing Act.

Accessible Design: Design principles that ensure buildings and facilities can be used by individuals with disabilities, including features like ramps, elevators, and appropriate signage.