The protected class of individuals with disabilities includes which characteristics?

The protected class of individuals with disabilities specifically includes those with mental or physical impairments. This classification is central to fair housing laws, as it recognizes that individuals who have disabilities may face discrimination in housing situations. The definition of disability is broad and encompasses various conditions that substantially limit one or more major life activities. This includes, but is not limited to, mobility impairments, mental health conditions, and chronic illnesses. The protection under fair housing regulations ensures that individuals with disabilities have equal access to housing opportunities and are not subjected to discrimination because of their physical or mental impairments.

In contrast, familial status pertains to the presence of children or the expectation of children within a household, which is another protected class under fair housing laws, but it does not relate to disabilities. Steering and blockbusting are discriminatory practices in real estate that involve manipulating the housing market based on race, ethnicity, or other characteristics; while they are unlawful practices, they do not specifically address the protections related to individuals with disabilities.