Are landlords allowed to refuse to rent to same-sex couples under Fair Housing Law?

In Tennessee, landlords are generally prohibited from discriminating against potential tenants on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. Under the federal Fair Housing Act, it is unlawful for a landlord to deny housing to an individual or family based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. This protection also applies to same-sex couples. In other words, under the federal Fair Housing Act, it is illegal for landlords to refuse to rent to same-sex couples. However, there are some notable exceptions to this rule. For example, private landlords are not required to comply with the federal Fair Housing Act, and thus may legally turn away same-sex couples for religious or moral reasons. Additionally, certain states have laws that specifically prohibit landlords from refusing to rent to same-sex couples. Tennessee does not have such a law in place. Overall, the federal Fair Housing Act prohibits landlords from discriminating against potential tenants on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. However, private landlords and some states have specific exemptions that allow them to deny housing to same-sex couples. For now, same-sex couples in Tennessee may find themselves subject to discrimination when it comes to housing.

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