Final answer:
HUD has measures to address complaints under the Fair Housing Act, which prohibits housing discrimination. Enforcement has varied across administrations with some seeking stronger integration rules, while others face criticism for weak enforcement.
Addressing the more subtle forms of discrimination revealed by studies remains a challenge.
Step-by-step explanation:
The US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has policies and procedures in place to begin work on a complaint made by an aggrieved person under the Fair Housing Act. This act, also known as the Civil Rights Act of 1968, banned discrimination in the sale or rental of housing.
Ensuring fair housing practices is a continuing effort, where HUD conducts audits to identify racial discrimination and enforces policies against such discrimination.
Over the years, administrations have differed in their approach to enforcement, with some proposing stringent rules to achieve more integrated communities, and others being criticized for a lax stand on enforcement.
Discrimination in housing has taken less overt forms over time, becoming more hidden and thus more challenging to address. Studies by HUD and the Urban Institute reveal ongoing disparities such as Hispanic and Black individuals receiving information about fewer available units compared to white individuals.
Efforts to remedy these issues are essential to allow equal access to communities with beneficial resources like good schools.