In 2021, which federal government agency announced an initiative called 'Combating Redlining Initiative'?

• A. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
• B. Federal Trade Commission
• C. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
• D. U.S. Department of Justice

Answer: (D)

Understanding this question hinges on recognizing which agency leads enforcement against housing discrimination and redlining. Redlining refers to denying or limiting services, including loans and insurance, in certain neighborhoods, often based on race or ethnicity. In 2021, the Department of Justice announced a Combating Redlining Initiative, aligning with its role to enforce civil rights laws like the Fair Housing Act. The Civil Rights Division of the DOJ pursues cases and creates initiatives to root out discrimination in housing and lending, coordinating with other federal partners to hold violators accountable. While agencies such as HUD focus on housing programs and fair housing enforcement, and the FTC and CFPB handle consumer protection and financial issues in different scopes, the formal announcement of a dedicated Combating Redlining Initiative came from the Department of Justice, reflecting its enforcement mandate in civil rights and housing.