A Georgia homebuyer believes they were denied housing based on a protected characteristic. Which statement correctly describes the complaint options available to this consumer under fair housing law?

Correct Answer

B) The consumer may file housing discrimination complaints through both state channels, such as the Georgia Commission on Equal Opportunity, and federal channels, such as HUD

Under both Georgia fair housing law and the federal Fair Housing Act (42 U.S.C. § 3610), consumers may pursue housing discrimination complaints through multiple channels. At the state level, the Georgia Commission on Equal Opportunity (GCEO) investigates complaints under Georgia's Fair Housing Law (O.C.G.A. § 8-3-200 et seq.). At the federal level, HUD accepts complaints under the Fair Housing Act. These pathways are not mutually exclusive; in fact, HUD and GCEO have a work-sharing agreement under which complaints may be cross-filed or referred between agencies.