The settlement hands Florida Governor Ron DeSantis more influence over Disney’s operations
Disney agreed yesterday to end a two-year legal battle with Gov. Ron DeSantis over the control of the special district that includes the Walt Disney World theme parks that the entertainment giant controlled for more than 50 years until last year when the governor moved to change that.
The beef between the governor and Disney started over the state’s Don’t Say Gay legislation, which restricted schools from teaching or talking about LGBTQ.
Disney had openly opposed the bill, prompting DeSantis to push for legislation dismantling the Reedy Creek tax district.
The settlement hands DeSantis more influence over Disney’s Florida operations and allows the company to expand its theme parks and resorts. It also addresses Disney’s concerns about a ban on LGBTQ-related education.
Both sides stated they had dropped the lawsuits filed against each other.
Overall, the agreement benefits both parties, allowing Disney to resume its expansion plans and DeSantis to claim a political victory over the issue.