T
he National Association of REALTORS' Professional Standards Committee will debate and vote on recommendations to amend Standard of Practice 10-5 and Policy Statement 29 in early June. The goal is to clarify enforcement of Article 10, which prohibits denying equal professional services based on protected characteristics. The proposed changes aim to address confusion and uncertainty around the policy's application.

    The committee's Interpretations and Procedures Advisory Board developed the recommendations, which focus on clarifying SOP 10-5's prohibition on harassing speech and hate speech. If approved, the changes will be voted on by NAR's Board of Directors in June.

    NAR President Kevin Sears emphasized the importance of maintaining a clear and enforceable Code of Ethics, stating that it distinguishes REALTORS from other real estate professionals and is essential for earning consumer trust. SOP 10-5 was introduced in response to national conversations about racial unrest and housing discrimination following George Floyd's killing in 2020.

    Since its introduction, the policy has faced challenges, including court cases in Arizona and Montana, which questioned its substance and enforcement. The proposed changes aim to address these concerns by creating a more specific definition of harassment and focusing Article 10's application on professional capacity.

    The goal is to provide clarity for members and reduce risks to state and local associations that administer and enforce the Code. NAR President Kevin Sears emphasized that the association remains committed to upholding principles of fair housing and equal treatment, and the proposed changes do not alter this commitment.