Department of Civil Rights v. Beznos Corp.

This action arises under the Michigan civil rights act, MCL 37.2101 et seq.; MSA 3.548(101) et seq., and focuses upon the policies and practices of the private owners of an apartment complex as they relate to and affect the civil rights of families with children. The issue we must resolve in this appeal is whether the owner of a multi-building apartment complex may lawfully restrict families with children to certain designated areas.

I

Facts and Procedural Background

The Beznos Corporation is a privately held Michigan corporation which owns and operates a 928-unit apartment complex known as…