MS HB1439

Creates the "Mississippi Fair Housing Act" establishing housing and real estate as civil rights, prohibiting discrimination based on religion, race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or familial status.

Prohibits real estate brokers, salespersons, and transaction participants from refusing service, discriminating in terms or conditions, misrepresenting property availability, or publishing discriminatory advertisements based on protected characteristics.

Prohibits financial institutions from discriminating in lending decisions or using application forms that indicate preference or discrimination based on protected characteristics related to applicants or residents.

Voids all restrictive covenants, conditions, and provisions limiting property use or occupancy based on protected characteristics, with exception for religious organizations limiting dwellings to members of the same faith.

Authorizes civil actions for violations, allowing plaintiffs to recover injunctive relief, damages, and reasonable attorney's fees; actions may be brought in circuit court in the county where violation occurred or where defendant resides.

Takes effect July 1, 2023.