Disney and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis have settled their legal dispute after reaching an agreement regarding the entertainment giant's operations and district functions over the next two decades. Following a lengthy negotiation process, the company dropped its lawsuit, paving the way for several mutually beneficial proposals.
According to AmericaTeVé, the 15-year agreement involves Disney investing $17 billion in Disney World. In return, DeSantis' administration committed to making infrastructure improvements on the park's property. The district will continue to manage municipal services such as fire protection, planning, and mosquito control.
"This new development agreement paves the way for us to invest billions of dollars in the Walt Disney World Resort, supporting the growth of this world-class destination, boosting Florida's economy, and allowing us to provide even more memorable and extraordinary experiences for our guests," said Jeff Vahle, president of Walt Disney World Resort.
Additionally, Disney has received approval to build a fifth major theme park at Disney World, along with two smaller parks, including a water park if desired. The company can also expand the number of hotel rooms on its property from nearly 40,000 to over 53,000 and increase retail and restaurant space by more than 20%. Disney will maintain control over building heights to preserve a favorable environment.
Background of the Legal Dispute
This agreement closes another chapter in their disputes. In February, a U.S. judge dismissed a lawsuit filed by Walt Disney Parks and Resorts against DeSantis and his political allies. The suit, filed in April 2023, claimed that DeSantis was using his political power to punish Disney for exercising its free speech rights and had even appointed a board to evaluate and raise taxes on the entertainment giant's Florida properties, according to CNN.
However, the court ruled that Disney lacked standing to sue the politician, and the company's claims against the governor's oversight board were unfounded. The court determined that Disney had not provided evidence of specific actions taken by the new board under the governor's purported control. This decision marked a victory for DeSantis, who had previously signed a bill granting new powers over the 47-square-mile area encompassing Walt Disney World Resort. Ultimately, both parties clarified their differences.
FAQs about Disney and Ron DeSantis' Agreement
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the recent agreement between Disney and Ron DeSantis, along with their answers:
What does the 15-year agreement between Disney and Florida entail?
The agreement involves Disney investing $17 billion in Disney World, while the DeSantis administration commits to infrastructure improvements on the park's property. The district will continue to manage municipal services.
What new developments can we expect at Disney World?
Disney has received approval to build a fifth major theme park, two smaller parks, and expand hotel rooms from nearly 40,000 to over 53,000. Retail and restaurant space will also increase by more than 20%.
How did the court rule in the previous legal dispute between Disney and DeSantis?
The court ruled that Disney lacked standing to sue DeSantis and that the claims against the governor's oversight board were unfounded. The court found no evidence of specific actions taken by the new board under the governor's control.