Is sexual orientation considered a protected class under the Fair Housing Act?

The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, and disability. As it stands, sexual orientation is not explicitly included as a protected characteristic under this federal law. While some states and local jurisdictions have enacted their own laws that do protect individuals against discrimination based on sexual orientation, these protections are not part of the federal Fair Housing Act itself. Therefore, stating that sexual orientation is not considered a protected class under this act is accurate.

This distinction is important, as it highlights the varying levels of protection available depending on local laws, and it emphasizes the ongoing discussions surrounding equal rights and protections in housing for LGBTQ+ individuals across different regions.