How many protected classes are identified in the Fair Housing Act of 1968?

The Fair Housing Act of 1968 originally identified five protected classes that are critical to preventing discrimination in housing. These classes are race, color, religion, sex, and national origin. Over time, additional classes have been added through amendments and related legislation, which has increased the total number of protected classes to include disability and familial status, bringing the total to seven.

Although the choice selected is incorrect as it states there are four protected classes, the correct total is seven in the context of additional laws concerning fair housing. This understanding is essential for leasing agents, as they must be aware of and comply with these protections to prevent discrimination in housing transactions.

The confusion may arise from different interpretations of what constitutes relevant protected classes since one might consider only those defined in the original Fair Housing Act rather than the supplemented protections established later. Always referencing the most current and complete list of protected classes is crucial for adherence to fair housing laws.