Key Takeaways
- Michigan's Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act provides fair housing protections beyond federal law
- Michigan protects additional classes including age, marital status, and height/weight
- The Michigan Department of Civil Rights (MDCR) enforces state fair housing laws
- The 4-hour civil rights course is mandatory for Michigan real estate licensing
- Complaints must be filed within 180 days of the alleged discriminatory act
Michigan Fair Housing Laws
Michigan has its own fair housing law that provides protections beyond federal requirements.
Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act
Michigan's Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act (ELCRA) prohibits discrimination in housing. This law expands on federal protections.
Protected Classes
| Federal Protected Classes | Michigan Additional Classes |
|---|---|
| Race | Age |
| Color | Marital Status |
| Religion | Height |
| Sex | Weight |
| National Origin | |
| Disability (Handicap) | |
| Familial Status |
Important: Michigan's fair housing protections are broader than federal law. The 4-hour mandatory civil rights course covers these protections.
Enforcement Agency
Michigan Department of Civil Rights (MDCR)
The MDCR is responsible for:
- Investigating fair housing complaints
- Mediating disputes
- Taking enforcement action
- Educating the public on civil rights
Filing a Complaint
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Time Limit | Within 180 days of discriminatory act |
| Filing Location | MDCR or HUD |
| Investigation | MDCR investigates complaints |
| Resolution | Conciliation, administrative hearing, or court |
Prohibited Acts
Under Michigan law, it is illegal to:
- Refuse to sell, rent, or negotiate based on protected class
- Discriminate in terms or conditions of housing
- Make discriminatory statements in advertising
- Represent unavailability when housing is available
- Blockbusting - Inducing sales by suggesting neighborhood change
- Steering - Directing buyers to/from certain neighborhoods
- Discriminatory lending - Unequal loan terms based on protected class
The 4-Hour Civil Rights Requirement
Michigan requires all real estate license applicants to complete a 4-hour civil rights course as part of the 40-hour pre-license education.
Course Coverage
| Topic | Description |
|---|---|
| Federal Fair Housing Act | Protected classes, prohibited acts |
| Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act | Michigan-specific protections |
| Americans with Disabilities Act | Accessibility requirements |
| Recognizing discrimination | Identifying discriminatory practices |
| Agent responsibilities | How to ensure compliance |
Penalties for Violations
Civil Penalties
| Offense | Potential Consequences |
|---|---|
| Violation | Actual damages |
| Willful violations | Punitive damages |
| Pattern or practice | Enhanced penalties |
| Attorney's fees | May be awarded to prevailing party |
License Discipline
Fair housing violations can also result in:
- License suspension
- License revocation
- Fines
- Required additional education
Agent Responsibilities
Licensed real estate agents must:
- Treat all parties equally regardless of protected class
- Use fair housing language in advertising
- Report discriminatory instructions from clients
- Refuse to follow discriminatory directives
- Maintain fair housing knowledge through continuing education
Which of the following is a protected class under Michigan law but NOT federal fair housing law?
Which agency enforces fair housing laws in Michigan?