Fair Housing Initiative Program Enforcement Testing TA

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FHEO has determined that fair housing testing technical assistance is critical to the Department�s Fair Housing Initiative Program�s enforcement effort. Fair housing testing is a vital tool for determining the extent of housing discrimination and is an effective component of a well-investigated complaint. Good testing results can speed up the investigation of complaints and provide a sound basis for documenting discriminatory practices. The Department has recognized the benefits of testing through our FHIP organizations. Additionally, many FHIP organizations have not been provided technical assistance on identifying the best complaints for testing nor on analyzing testing results for their most effective use. By taking the lead in establishing levels of high quality and consistency in testing protocols, the Department can set the standard in testing activities and ensure that the FHIP testing results are beneficial to on-going investigations. To address these issues, this funding will provide training and technical assistance to one or more entities by developing a course on Fair Housing Testing, and by conducting technical assistance to promote a greater and more consistent use of Testing Methodologies among FHIP organizations. Testing represents the most effective investigative tool in uncovering and corroborating claims of unlawful discrimination. Improving the quality and consistency of testing used by FHIP organizations will increase the persuasiveness and acceptance of tests in litigation. This is designed to provide FHIP organizations with the necessary tools to conduct, understand, and analyze testing with the stated goal of contributing to the Department�s enforcement efforts.

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