81. A particular apartment complex has been planned and built with services, amenities, and living quarters designed to accommodate the lifestyle and preferences of young singles under 35. If you are employed to lease these apartments, is it permissible to advertise them as perfect for young singles, and why or why not
Answer: B
It is not permissible because housing discrimination based on either age or marital status is illegal except in the case of housing for the elderly, which may have an age requirement.
Advertising apartments specifically for young singles under 35 is not permissible due to anti-discrimination laws, which prohibit discrimination based on age and marital status, except in specific instances for housing designated for the elderly.
A) It is not permissible because housing discrimination based on age is allowed only in the case of a general over 65 rule
This option incorrectly implies that age discrimination is permissible under certain conditions, specifically referring to individuals over 65. However, it fails to recognize that discrimination against younger individuals is also prohibited under the Fair Housing Act, making this statement inaccurate.
B) It is not permissible because housing discrimination based on either age or marital status is illegal except in the case of housing for the elderly, which may have an age requirement
This statement accurately reflects the legal framework governing housing discrimination. The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination based on age and marital status, except for certain exceptions related to housing for the elderly, thus making it clear that targeting young singles is not permissible.
C) It is permissible because advertising may be directed to a targeted group
This option is incorrect as it overlooks the legal restrictions imposed on advertisements that discriminate based on age. While targeted advertising is common, it cannot violate anti-discrimination laws, which explicitly prohibit age-related targeting unless it falls under specific exemptions for elderly housing.
D) It is permissible because restrictions on age and marital status may be imposed as long as they are generally applied to all tenants, just as in the case of retirement communities
This statement is misleading. While retirement communities can impose age restrictions, these are specific to their nature and are legally permitted. In contrast, general housing cannot impose such restrictions or target specific age groups, making this option incorrect.
Conclusion
The correct answer, option B, outlines the legal restrictions against age and marital status discrimination in housing. All other options fail to acknowledge the comprehensive nature of these anti-discrimination laws, either by incorrectly stating exceptions or misapplying the principles of targeted advertising. Therefore, it is clear that advertising apartments specifically for young singles is not permissible under current housing laws.