Supporters of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Disney have successfully negotiated an agreement regarding the governance of Walt Disney World going forward.
This resolution follows a January judicial decision affirming the state’s authority to amend the governance of the theme park’s district. The dispute, which has persisted for nearly two years, originated from Disney’s opposition to a Florida law limiting discussions on sexuality in educational settings.
During a Wednesday session, the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District board ratified the settlement. Walt Disney World Resort President Jeff Vahle expressed satisfaction with the settlement, highlighting it as the beginning of a positive relationship with the district’s new leaders and emphasizing the mutual benefits, including substantial investments and job creation within Florida.
The conflict began when Disney publicly criticized the Parental Rights in Education Act, often referred to by critics as the “Don’t Say Gay” bill, leading to legislation by Governor DeSantis that revoked Disney’s longstanding self-governance over the theme park. This shift in power allowed DeSantis to appoint members to the overseeing board of the park’s vast expanse.
Prior to the transition of board control, proponents of Disney within the board had executed agreements transferring certain operational controls to Disney, actions that were later challenged in court by the district, with Disney counter-suing. As part of the settlement, it was acknowledged that these pre-transition agreements were considered invalid.
Since its inception in 1971, Disney has managed the expansive theme park, marking a significant chapter in its history with this recent agreement.
