What is the penalty for Fair Housing violations intended to serve as?

The penalty for Fair Housing violations is intended primarily as a deterrent to future violations. By imposing penalties, the law aims to discourage individuals and entities from engaging in discriminatory practices in housing. The consequences serve as a clear message that violations of fair housing laws will not be tolerated and that there are significant repercussions for such conduct.

While penalties may also provide some compensation to victims or act as a method of legal compliance, their primary function is to prevent future violations by creating an environment where discrimination is less likely to occur. This proactive approach fosters a fair and equitable housing market, encouraging adherence to Fair Housing regulations and promoting awareness of the importance of non-discriminatory practices in real estate transactions. Thus, focusing on deterrence supports the overarching goal of Fair Housing laws, which is to ensure equal access to housing for all individuals, regardless of their protected characteristics.