Commonwealth Issues Record Awards in Landmark Fair Housing Resolution
Sept. 3, 2026
Media Contact: Eric Beidel
Commonwealth Issues Record Awards in Landmark Fair Housing Resolution
RICHMOND, VA — The Virginia Fair Housing Office on Sept. 2 joined the Office of the Attorney General to mark the largest individual awards ever issued in a fair housing case in the Commonwealth.
The awards were made to the families who experienced racial discrimination in a highly publicized 2020 incident at Lazy Cove Campground near Smith Mountain Lake.
“These successful outcomes underscore the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation’s commitment to enforcing fair housing protections and holding accountable those who engage in housing discrimination in Virginia,” said Liz Hayes, Director of the Virginia Fair Housing Office. “Most importantly, these cases demonstrate that individuals who experience discrimination can seek justice and meaningful remedies. The substantial awards secured for these families make clear that housing discrimination has serious consequences and that every Virginian deserves a fair and equal opportunity to access housing.”
The Office of the Attorney General has released additional details about the case and the awards provided to the families. Read the full announcement.