This paper, one of a series of topic papers assessing federal laws and programs affecting persons with disabilities, addresses the issue of housing. Major federal responsibilities are to develop additional housing opportunities for persons with disabilities and to assure that currently available housing is equally open to individuals with disabilities. Described are the federal housing assistance and loan programs authorized in Section 202 of the Housing Act of 1959 (as later amended), Section 8 of the U.S. Housing Act of 1937, Section 207 of the Housing and Urban-Rural Recovery Act of 1983 which established the Housing Voucher Demonstration Program, and the Community Development Block Grant Program. Laws and proposed regulations prohibiting discrimination in housing on the basis of disability are reviewed. The need for a federal prohibition of discriminatory zoning in local ordinances is also documented. Costs and benefits of providing appropriate housing for people with disabilities are considered. The paper concludes with recommendations designed to prohibit housing discrimination and to promote appropriate and accessible housing for persons with disabilities. (JDD)