Fresh Air
A Legal Scholar On 10 Laws 'Ruining America'
Mar 24, 2025
Elie Mystal, a legal scholar and author of "Bad Law," dives into the serious flaws of ten laws he believes are ruining America. He critiques the Hyde Amendment's toll on reproductive rights and details the adverse effects of airline deregulation on travel experiences. Mystal discusses systemic issues in immigration law and voter registration, calling for urgent reforms. He also shares personal anecdotes about his childhood influences and reviews the captivating new mystery series 'Ludwig,' adding a dash of whimsy to the conversation.
44:35
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Quick takeaways
- Elie Mystal argues that many pre-1965 laws reflect oppressive ideologies and should be critically reexamined for their ongoing impact on democracy.
- Mystal critiques current voter registration laws for creating barriers that suppress participation, advocating for automatic registration to enhance electoral engagement.
Deep dives
The Impact of Bad Laws
The discussion centers around Ellie Mistal's assertion that certain laws in America have detrimental effects on society. He emphasizes that the laws he critiques are not merely flawed but intentionally designed to cause harm, reflecting the assumptions and prejudices of their time. Mistal's selection criteria for these laws included their potential for immediate positive change if repealed, highlighting that some laws are not merely outdated but inherently malicious. This choice underscores his belief that repealing certain regulations could lead to a significant improvement in societal conditions.
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