Final answer:
The Fair Housing Act of 1968 does not specifically mention alcoholics and persons in treatment as a protected class. However, protections could be extended under the Americans with Disabilities Act, as it can be considered a disability. The Act primarily addresses discrimination based on race, color, religion, nationality, sex, familial status, and disability.
Step-by-step explanation:
Under the Fair Housing Act of 1968, which is designed to prevent discrimination in the sale or rental of housing, alcoholics and persons in treatment for alcoholism are not specifically mentioned as a protected class. However, subsequent amendments and related laws, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), offer protections to individuals with disabilities, which could include those who are recovering from alcoholism. This makes it illegal to discriminate in housing based on a disability. The initial intent of the Fair Housing Act was to combat racial discrimination and it has been strengthened over time to include protections based on color, religion, nationality, sex, familial status, and disability. Since alcoholism can be considered a disability, the ADA may provide indirect protection to recovering alcoholics under housing discrimination laws. Nevertheless, the act does not explicitly list alcoholics or persons in treatment as a protected class. Enforcement of the Fair Housing Act and associated laws like the ADA is tasked to various federal agencies and departments, ensuring that all individuals have equal opportunities in housing without facing unlawful discrimination.