Distinctions Between the ADA and Fair Housing Law
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Fair Housing Act (FHA) are both civil rights laws that protect individuals from discrimination. However, they have different scopes and focus on different types of discrimination.
Scope
- The ADA is a broader law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including housing, employment, transportation, and telecommunications.
- The FHA is a narrower law that specifically prohibits discrimination in the sale, rental, and financing of housing.
Focus
The ADA focuses on discrimination based on disability.
The FHA focuses on discrimination based on a protected class, which includes race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, and familial status.
Key Differences
The ADA applies to all public accommodations, including housing, while the FHA specifically applies to the sale, rental, and financing of housing.
The ADA’s definition of disability is broader than the FHA’s definition.
The ADA’s remedies are generally more extensive than the FHA’s remedies.
The ADA and FHA are both important laws that protect individuals from discrimination. However, they have different scopes and focus on different types of discrimination. Understanding the key differences between the two laws can help you to determine which law applies to your situation and how to protect your rights.
This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Contact us today to discuss your specific situation.