MS SB2817

Creates the "Mississippi Fair Housing Act" declaring that obtaining housing and real estate without discrimination based on religion, race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or familial status is a civil right.

Prohibits real estate brokers, salespersons, and persons in real estate transactions from refusing service, discriminating in terms or conditions, or misrepresenting property availability based on protected characteristics.

Prohibits discrimination in real estate financing by lenders and creditors, and voids restrictive covenants that limit property use or occupancy based on protected characteristics, with an exception for religious organizations.

Prohibits steering (representing that demographic changes will lower property values or increase crime) and retaliatory actions against employees or persons who oppose or report violations of the act.

Provides civil remedy allowing persons alleging violations to sue for injunctive relief and damages including reasonable attorney's fees in circuit court; prevailing parties may recover litigation costs; effective July 1, 2024.