Why it matters: Facebook just reached a historic settlement with the ACLU and other advocacy groups around this same issue, so it's surprising that a settlement did not occur between HUD and the tech giant.
They believe HUDs move could be driven by the agencys desire to show its going on the offense before HUD Secretary Ben Carson heads to Capitol Hill next week for routine meetings with the House and Senate Appropriations Committees.
Details: HUD alleges that Facebook unlawfully discriminates against users by restrictingwho can view housing-related ads on Facebooks platforms and across the internet.
What they're saying: "Facebook is discriminating against people based upon who they are and where they live," said Carson.
Between the lines: According to a Facebook spokesperson, talks broke down when HUD "insisted on access to sensitive information like user data without adequate safeguards."
What's next: HUD's charge will be heard by an administrative law judge unless Facebook elects to have the case heard in federal district court.
Original article