Final answer:
The Federal Fair Housing Act of 1988 protects individuals and families with children under the age of 18, including pregnant women and anyone in the process of securing legal custody of a child under 18, from discrimination in housing.
Step-by-step explanation:
Under the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1988, a protected class under the definition of familial status includes those with children under the age of 18 living with them. This includes parents, legal custodians, pregnant women, and anyone securing legal custody of a child under 18. Familial status protection also extends to any person undergoing the process of securing legal custody of an individual under 18, for example through adoption or foster care. This provision is pivotal in preventing discrimination against families with children in housing-related transactions. It ensures that families with children are given the same housing opportunities as other applicants or residents, without fear of being denied housing or offered inferior terms because of their status as families with children.