After HUD investigates a discrimination complaint, which option is available to the complainant?

• A. The complaint is dismissed and cannot be pursued further.
• B. The complainant can pursue private action.
• C. HUD will automatically resolve the complaint in favor of the complainant.
• D. HUD can only pursue administrative penalties.

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that complainants retain the option to pursue private action in federal or state court even after HUD completes its discrimination investigation. The Fair Housing Act allows two parallel paths: HUD can investigate, help with conciliation, and pursue its own enforcement actions, but individuals who believe they’ve been discriminated against may also bring a private lawsuit. This private route is a separate remedy and remains available, typically within a statutory time limit, regardless of HUD’s findings. That’s why private action is the correct option here.

The other statements don’t fit because HUD’s process does not automatically dismiss a case with no further recourse, nor does HUD automatically resolve in the complainant’s favor, and HUD’s enforcement isn’t limited to administrative penalties only.