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Which government agency is responsible for enforcing the Fair Housing Act?
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
Department of Housing and Urban Development
Federal Housing Finance Agency
Department of Justice
The correct answer is: Department of Housing and Urban Development
The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is the government agency that oversees the enforcement of the Fair Housing Act. This act, established in 1968 and amended subsequently, aims to eliminate discrimination in housing based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status, or disability. HUD plays a critical role by investigating complaints, addressing alleged violations, and implementing policies that promote fair housing practices. The other agencies listed have their own specific roles within the housing and finance sectors. For instance, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau focuses on consumer protection in financial transactions rather than housing discrimination specifically. The Federal Housing Finance Agency regulates and oversees government-sponsored entities like Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac but does not enforce fair housing laws. The Department of Justice can intervene in cases of housing discrimination but typically operates in conjunction with HUD, which has the primary responsibility for enforcing the Fair Housing Act. Thus, the correct answer highlights HUD's central role in promoting and enforcing compliance with fair housing regulations.