Final answer:
The correct legislation that empowers the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing to combat housing discrimination is not explicitly listed, but the closest option is the Rumford Act. The correct option is 1.
Step-by-step explanation:
The act that allows the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing to take action against public or private housing entities that discriminate is not specifically listed among the options provided. However, the Fair Housing Act of 1968 is a significant legislation that prohibited discrimination in the sale or rental of housing. While the provided options mention other civil rights legislation, such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which banned racial discrimination in public accommodations and employment, they do not mention a California state act that directly empowers the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing. The closest option available, although not correct, would be the Rumford Act, known formally as the California Fair Employment and Housing Act, which outlawed discrimination in state-funded housing and public housing in California.
The correct option is 1.