Illinois Leasing Agent Practice Exam

A fair housing complaint was filed against an owner of a six-unit apartment building for refusing to lease to a 20-year-old pregnant female. Which act did the owner violate?

1. Fair Housing Amendment Act of 1988

2. Americans with Disabilities Act

3. Civil Rights Act of 1964

4. Housing Opportunity Act

The correct answer is: Fair Housing Amendment Act of 1988

The Fair Housing Amendment Act of 1988 expanded the protections under the Fair Housing Act to include individuals based on familial status, which refers to the presence of children under 18 in a household. By refusing to lease to a 20-year-old pregnant female, the owner violated this act because the refusal is based on her status as someone who would soon have children, thus discriminating against her based on familial status. This amendment specifically aims to prevent discrimination against pregnant individuals and those with children, making it the most relevant legislation in this scenario. The other options do not specifically address this type of discrimination. The Americans with Disabilities Act pertains to individuals with disabilities, while the Civil Rights Act of 1964 primarily covers issues of race, color, religion, sex, and national origin. The Housing Opportunity Act does not provide the same specific protections related to familial status as the Fair Housing Amendment Act. Therefore, the owner’s action of denying housing based on the applicant's pregnancy is a direct violation of the Fair Housing Amendment Act of 1988.