Disney and DeSantis-appointed board reach settlement after yearslong dispute

Disney and the board of the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District reached a settlement in a lawsuit concerning the special governing district where Disney is located. Disney and the board, appointed by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, reached the settlement on Wednesday, March 27, ending a yearslong legal dispute.

For decades, Disney held sway over the district. However, the dynamics shifted when Disney clashed publicly with DeSantis over Florida Parental Rights in Education law, which critics labeled the “Don’t Say Gay” bill.

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The law imposed restrictions on the discussion of sexual orientation and gender identity in Florida’s public classrooms. Disney voiced opposition to the bill, prompting DeSantis to urge the Florida Legislature to revoke Disney’s special privileges and control over the special tax district. Subsequently, Florida’s Republican-led Legislature granted DeSantis the authority to appoint a new board of supervisors to oversee the district.

Disney responded by filing a lawsuit, alleging that its right to free speech had been infringed. This legal conflict spanned two years.

As part of the settlement, Disney has withdrawn its lawsuit against the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District and acknowledged that its last-minute development agreements are void and unenforceable.

“No corporation should act as its own government,” said Bryan Griffin, a spokesperson for DeSantis. “Moving forward, we are prepared to collaborate with Disney and the district to promote economic growth, family-friendly tourism, and accountable government in Central Florida.”

Jeff Vahle, president of Walt Disney World, issued a brief statement expressing satisfaction with the settlement.

“We are pleased to conclude all pending litigation in Florida state court between Disney and the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District,” Vahle said. “This agreement marks a new era of constructive engagement with the district’s new leadership and serves the interests of all parties by facilitating significant continued investment, the creation of thousands of direct and indirect jobs, and economic opportunities in the state.”