A homebuyer believes a Georgia property manager discriminated against her based on a protected class during the rental application process. She wants to know her options for filing a complaint. Which statement correctly describes the complaint process available under Georgia and federal law?

Correct Answer

D) The consumer may file housing-discrimination complaints through state channels such as the Georgia Commission on Equal Opportunity and through federal channels such as HUD.

Under Georgia's Fair Housing Act (O.C.G.A. § 8-3-208) and the federal Fair Housing Act (42 U.S.C. § 3610), consumers may file discrimination complaints with the Georgia Commission on Equal Opportunity (GCEO) and with HUD. Because GCEO is certified as a 'substantially equivalent' agency under HUD's Fair Housing Assistance Program, the agencies may share jurisdiction and coordinate investigations. There is no requirement to choose only one pathway.