Bill > HB1693

This bill amends the Virginia Code to require all applicants for real estate appraiser licensure (including licensed residential, certified residential, and certified general appraisers) to complete a minimum of two hours of education on fair housing and appraisal bias before obtaining their license. The required training must cover the historical context of housing discrimination, including the legacy of segregation, unequal treatment, and lack of access to opportunities in housing. The course will also address unequal access to amenities based on protected characteristics like race and disability, review federal, state, and local fair housing laws, and teach anti-bias practices. The Real Estate Appraiser Board will administer or approve these educational courses, and the Fair Housing Board will be responsible for conducting an annual audit of these courses. This requirement aims to address systemic bias in real estate appraisals by ensuring that new appraisers are educated about the historical and ongoing issues of discrimination in housing assessment and valuation.

Business and Industry, Justice

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20251/HB1693