Inside People v. Smiel: When Process Becomes the Story
Giselle Smiel faces five felony charges, including kidnapping, after picking up her child at a San Diego school. Her defense argues that the charges lack legal basis due to improper venue and insufficient evidence. Concerns about ADA violations and a…
Md. ID law is a good step (Published in The Washington Post, Oct. 15, 2025)
Maryland's "Eric's Law," allowing non-apparent disabilities to be marked on driver's licenses, is a positive step for disability rights, promoting understanding in law enforcement. However, deeper reforms in the court system are required, including…
The Disabilities You Don’t See — and the Systems That Still Don’t See Us
The post discusses the challenges faced by individuals with invisible disabilities in America, highlighting systemic bias in courts and institutions that often fail to accommodate their needs. It emphasizes the need for better enforcement of the ADA,…
Maryland’s ADA Mirage: Rhetoric, Red Tape, and the Quiet Punishment of Invisible Disabilities
Maryland's political rhetoric emphasizes equity and inclusion, but parents and students facing disabilities experience skepticism and delayed support. Federal deficiencies in education and court systems exacerbate challenges. Excessive documentation,…
Eric’s ID Law: Maryland’s New Driver’s License Option for Nonapparent Disabilities Marks a Major Step Toward Safety and Inclusion
Maryland's HB0707, known as Eric’s ID Law, allows individuals to optionally designate a "nonapparent disability" on their driver's licenses and IDs starting October 1, 2025. Inspired by Eric Carpenter-Grantham, this law promotes understanding and…