Cracker Barrel Agrees to Settlement Following Disability Discrimination Allegations at Waldorf Restaurant

A recent settlement announced by Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown and the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights (MCCR) addresses allegations of disability discrimination against a group of students with autism during a visit to a Cracker Barrel restaurant in Waldorf, Maryland. The agreement aims to provide compensation to the affected students and enhance the company’s commitment to inclusivity nationwide.

The incident in question occurred in December 2024 when 11 students and their teachers from Dr. James Craik Elementary School visited the Waldorf Cracker Barrel as part of a program designed to help students develop social and life skills. Teachers involved in the outing reported that the group experienced delays and mistreatment that they attributed to the students’ disabilities. Under both Maryland law and the federal Americans with Disabilities Act, businesses that serve the public are legally obligated to ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal access to their goods and services without discrimination.

Following the event, the Civil Rights Division of the Maryland Attorney General’s Office initiated an investigation, and the MCCR formally filed a complaint against Cracker Barrel. The two agencies collaborated on the subsequent investigation. While Cracker Barrel has denied the allegations, the company has agreed to resolve the matter through this settlement rather than engage in litigation.

Under the terms of the agreement, Cracker Barrel will implement a revised and strengthened public accommodation policy across all of its locations nationwide. This updated policy is intended to ensure greater compliance with both state and federal disability rights laws. The company will also provide financial compensation to the affected students, with each of the 11 students receiving $7,500, totaling $82,500.

In addition to direct compensation to the students, Cracker Barrel will donate $17,500 to Dr. James Craik Elementary School’s SORE and ACHIEVE programs. These funds are earmarked for the expansion of classroom technology, including adaptive learning tools, communication devices, and interactive software specifically designed to support students with developmental disabilities. The company will also reimburse the school for $446.56, covering the cost of meals and transportation incurred on the day of the incident. Furthermore, Cracker Barrel will contribute $9,000 to Maryland’s Civil Rights Enforcement Fund, which supports various educational, outreach, and enforcement initiatives aimed at protecting civil rights throughout the state.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Maryland Attorney General’s Office

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