Civil Rights Act of 1866

The federal Civil Rights Act of 1866 prohibits discrimination in housing because of race or color in the sale or rental of property. This act provided for private rights of action, but there were no federal enforcement provisions. 

Civil Rights Act of 1968 and 1988 amendment 

In leasing or selling residential property, the civil rights act of 1968 expands the definition of discrimination to include not only race, but also national origin, color, and religion. The fair housing amendments act of 1988 further broadens the definition to include age, sex, and handicapped status.

Americans with Disabilities Act 

Title III of the federal Americans with Disabilities Act prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities in commercial facilities and places of public accommodation. 

Equal Credit Opportunity Act 

The federal Equal Credit Opportunity Act makes it unlawful to discriminate against anyone on a credit application due to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, age or because all or part of an applicant's income comes from any public assistance program.