Interactive training module, resources assist state courts with fair housing issues
April 5, 2023 -- This month marks the 55th anniversary of the federal Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination against renters and homeowners based on race, color, religion, sexual orientation, nationality, disability, or familial status.
Because issues related to the Fair Housing Act can impact state courts, NCSC has developed a fair housing training module in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Justice and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
“There is a common misconception that fair housing law is a federal issue and not relevant in state courts,” said NCSC Principal Court Management Consultant Samira Nazem. “In reality, fair housing claims may be brought in state courts and may also come up as defenses in eviction matters or other state court proceedings. We encourage courts to use this module to increase their understanding of fair housing laws and potential impacts in state courts.”
The self-paced, interactive Fair Housing Act training module covers topics including:
- Fair Housing Act overview
- Public and private enforcement
- Assistance resources and remedies
- Protections for tenants, buyers, and borrowers
Additional guidance is available in the Overview of Fair Housing and State Courts briefing document and Fair Housing Resource List. You can also learn more about fair housing from Tiny Chat 59, which features interviews with Kristen Clarke of the U.S. Department of Justice and Jeanine Worden of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.