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
Important: This content covers Michigan-specific fair housing provisions. You should complete the National Real Estate Exam Prep first, as federal fair housing law is heavily tested on the national portion.
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?