What is the primary purpose of the Fair Housing Act?

The primary purpose of the Fair Housing Act is to prevent discrimination in housing-related transactions. Enacted in 1968, the Act aims to eliminate barriers to housing that unfairly target individuals based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, and disability. By ensuring fair access to housing opportunities for all individuals, the Fair Housing Act plays a critical role in promoting equality and preventing discriminatory practices in the real estate market, thereby fostering a more inclusive society.

While creating more affordable housing options is a relevant issue, it does not capture the essence of the Fair Housing Act, which is primarily focused on addressing discriminatory practices rather than affordability. Regulating mortgage interest rates and promoting home ownership among minorities are also important topics within the broader context of housing, but these objectives do not specifically define the main purpose of the Fair Housing Act. The Act is fundamentally about preventing discrimination, making it essential to recognize its primary goal in understanding housing regulations and consumer lending.