Illinois Leasing Agent Practice Exam

The prohibition against discrimination based on familial status is meant to protect which individuals?

1. Single individuals

2. Parents with children

3. All adults

4. Only senior citizens

The correct answer is: Parents with children

The prohibition against discrimination based on familial status is designed to protect the rights of parents and legal guardians with children under the age of 18. This legal protection is part of the Fair Housing Act, which aims to ensure that families, regardless of their composition, have equal access to housing. Specifically, this includes individuals who have children living with them, as well as those who are in the process of acquiring custody or legal guardianship of a child. The intention behind this provision is to prevent landlords and property managers from treating families unfairly or imposing discriminatory policies that could limit their housing options. This legal framework acknowledges the specific needs of families and helps to foster diverse communities by ensuring that those with children have the same opportunities as other renters or homeowners. While other groups, such as single individuals or seniors, may also face different forms of discrimination, the focus of the familial status provision is predominantly on protecting parents and guardians who are raising children.