Today, U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Shaun Donovan announced new regulations on LGBT nondiscrimination in federally-funded housing.

The rules prohibit owners and operators of HUD-assisted housing from discriminating on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity; prohibit lenders from using sexual orientation or gender identity to determine eligibility for FHA-insured mortgages; clarify that all otherwise eligible families will have the opportunity to take part in HUD programs; and prohibit owners and operators of HUD-assisted housing from asking about sexual orientation or gender identity as part of a screening process.

The City of Portland has recognized sexual orientation as a protected class since 1991, when the Council passed an ordinance to prohibit discrimination in housing, employment, and public accommodations.

We're pleased that HUD has become a national leader on LGBT equality, taking bold actions to increase fairness in housing nationwide.

Commissioner Fish said, "I am grateful to the Obama administration, Secretary Donovan, and Assistant Secretary Trasviña for ensuring that federally-funded housing is open to all, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity."

The new rules will go into effect 30 days after they are published in the Federal Register next week.

HUD Announcement

New Rules