Which office is charged with enforcing fair housing laws?

The Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (OFHEO) is the federal agency responsible for enforcing fair housing laws in the United States. This office operates under the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and ensures compliance with the Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability.

The role of OFHEO includes investigating complaints of housing discrimination, conducting outreach and education to prevent discrimination, and fostering inclusive and equitable communities. Their enforcement actions can include mediation, administrative hearings, and court actions to address violations of fair housing laws.

Other offices listed, such as the Internal Revenue Service, the Office of Internal Affairs, and the Real Estate Examination Board, do not have the authority or responsibilities related to housing discrimination and fair housing enforcement. The IRS focuses on tax regulations and collection, while the Internal Affairs typically pertains to internal operations or misconduct in other agencies, and the Real Estate Examination Board oversees licensing and regulations for real estate professionals rather than enforcing fair housing laws.