What factor can a landlord not use as grounds for discrimination against tenants?

Discrimination based on a tenant's sexual orientation is prohibited under fair housing laws, which aim to ensure equal treatment and protect against discrimination in housing-related transactions. These laws, including the Fair Housing Act, establish that tenants cannot be denied housing or subjected to different terms and conditions because of their sexual orientation. This protection reflects a broader societal commitment to inclusivity and non-discrimination.

In contrast, while factors like a tenant's financial status, occupation, or choice of pets could raise concerns regarding a landlord's preferences, they are not universally protected characteristics under fair housing laws. Therefore, using sexual orientation as a criterion for discrimination is unequivocally prohibited, distinguishing it from other factors that may not carry the same legal protections.