Which characteristic is included in the Fair Housing Act's list of protected categories?

The Fair Housing Act protects individuals from discrimination in housing based on certain characteristics. One of the protected categories explicitly included in the Act is handicap, which encompasses both physical and mental disabilities. This provision is aimed at ensuring that individuals with disabilities have equal access to housing and are not subjected to discrimination based on their condition.

The inclusion of handicap as a protected category reflects the broader intent of the Fair Housing Act to promote equal rights within housing opportunities, ensuring that landlords and property owners provide reasonable accommodations and modifications for individuals with disabilities. This protection helps to create an inclusive environment where people with disabilities can secure housing without facing barriers or discrimination.

In contrast, while sexual orientation has gained broader recognition in civil rights law, it is not explicitly listed in the Fair Housing Act. Political affiliation and veteran status also do not fall within the categories covered by the Act, further emphasizing why handicap is the correct choice in this context.