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What is the primary purpose of the Fair Housing Act?

  1. To eliminate discrimination in housing

  2. To regulate mortgage rates

  3. To govern property taxes

  4. To oversee zoning laws

The correct answer is: To eliminate discrimination in housing

The primary purpose of the Fair Housing Act is to eliminate discrimination in housing. Enacted in 1968 and amended several times, the Fair Housing Act aims to ensure that all individuals have equal access to housing opportunities, regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability. This legislation is fundamental in promoting fair and equitable housing practices, making it illegal to deny someone housing or to provide different housing services and amenities based on the protected characteristics outlined in the Act. By addressing and aiming to eradicate discriminatory practices in rental, sale, and advertising for housing, the Fair Housing Act serves as a key tool in fostering diversity and inclusion within communities. The other options pertain to different aspects of real estate and housing regulation. Regulating mortgage rates relates to financial practices rather than prohibiting discrimination, governing property taxes deals with taxation policies, and overseeing zoning laws involves land use planning. Each of these areas is important but is not aligned with the primary intention of the Fair Housing Act.