Cracker Barrel Reaches Settlement in Disability Discrimination Case Involving Students with Autism
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A landmark settlement has been reached between the Maryland Attorney General’s Office and Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc., resolving allegations of disability discrimination against students with autism at a Waldorf, Maryland location. The agreement mandates policy changes and financial compensation following an incident in december 2024.
The dispute stemmed from an incident on December 3, 2024, when 11 students from Dr. James craik Elementary School and seven staff members were allegedly refused full service during a planned lunch outing. The group, participating in a community-based instruction program designed too foster social skills and independence, had called ahead and been informed that reservations were not necessary. Though, upon arrival, they were reportedly denied table service, though a carry-out order was permitted.
“When businesses break the law and fail to treat people with disabilities with the dignity and respect they deserve, my Office will step in and hold them accountable,” stated Attorney General Brown. “This settlement compensates these students and their school while requiring Cracker Barrel to update its policies – advancing inclusion and accessibility not just across Maryland, but across the entire country.”
Examination Reveals Mistreatment and Policy Concerns
following reports from teachers detailing delays and perceived mistreatment stemming from the students’ disabilities, the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights (MCCR) and the Civil Rights Division initiated a thorough investigation. While Cracker Barrel maintained it did not engage in discriminatory practices, the company opted for a voluntary settlement to preempt potential litigation.
Prior to the settlement, reports indicated that three Cracker Barrel employees were terminated in connection with the incident.
Settlement Details: Financial Relief and Policy reform
The terms of the settlement are thorough, addressing both immediate harm and long-term systemic improvements. Cracker Barrel will revise its public accommodation policy nationwide to ensure full compliance with both state and federal disability rights laws.
Financially, the settlement includes:
- A total of $75,000 to be distributed among the 11 affected students, with each child receiving $7,500.
- A $17,500 donation to the Dr. James Craik Elementary School’s SORE and ACHIEVE programs, earmarked for enhancing classroom technology for students with developmental disabilities.
- Reimbursement of $446.56 to the school to cover meal and transportation expenses incurred on the day of the incident.
- A $9,000 contribution to the Maryland Civil Rights Enforcement Fund.
“This agreement is a reminder that every child, every family, and every Marylander deserves to move through our communities with dignity, respect, and full inclusion,”
Why did this happen? On December 3, 2024, 11 students with autism and seven staff members from Dr. James craik Elementary School were denied table service at a Cracker Barrel in Waldorf, Maryland, despite having called ahead.They were offered carry-out service rather.
Who was involved? The Maryland Attorney General’s Office, Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc., the 11 students with autism, seven staff members from Dr. James Craik Elementary School, and the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights (MCCR).
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