What does the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination enforce?

The Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD) is responsible for enforcing state laws that prohibit discrimination in various areas, primarily in employment, housing, and public accommodations. The focus of the MCAD is to uphold civil rights and ensure that individuals are treated fairly without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, or other protected characteristics.

Choosing civil rights violations as the answer is appropriate because it aligns directly with the mission and role of the MCAD in addressing any unlawful discriminatory practices. The commission conducts investigations, holds hearings, and seeks to resolve complaints, effectively upholding the civil rights of individuals in Massachusetts.

The other options do not pertain to the MCAD's authority. Environmental protection laws are administered by different regulatory bodies focused on environmental conservation and compliance. Tax compliance regulations fall under the jurisdiction of the state's Department of Revenue, while building codes enforcement is managed by local municipal governments or planning boards, which ensure that construction meets safety and zoning standards.