What is the enforcement authority for the SC Fair Housing Law?

The South Carolina Human Affairs Commission holds the enforcement authority for the SC Fair Housing Law. This state agency is responsible for investigating complaints related to housing discrimination and ensuring that individuals' rights are protected under the law. It serves as the local enforcement body that addresses issues of fair housing and can initiate legal action if necessary.

The commission’s role includes educating the public about their rights under the Fair Housing Law, conducting investigations, and facilitating conciliation efforts to resolve disputes. By having a dedicated agency, South Carolina ensures that there is a structured approach to handling fair housing violations, providing residents with accessible resources and support for addressing unlawful discrimination.

In contrast, while the Department of Justice and the Federal Housing Administration may be involved in broader federal fair housing issues, they do not specifically enforce state law in South Carolina. Local city councils may play a role in implementing local housing policies but do not handle enforcement under the state law. Thus, the South Carolina Human Affairs Commission is the correct authority for this purpose.