Disney faces lawsuit over disability access changes
Disabled guests filed a federal lawsuit and a shareholder proposal challenging Disney’s recent narrowing of its Disability Access Service (DAS) eligibility at Disneyland and Disney World, arguing the policy is too restrictive and improperly limits who can bypass long standby lines. Disney now reserves DAS mainly for guests with developmental disabilities such as autism, requires video‑chat screening with a Disney worker and contracted medical professional, and warns violators can be banned; the company says DAS grew from about 5% to 20% of parkgoers and other accommodations remain available.
📌 Key Facts
- DAS eligibility narrowed to guests with developmental disabilities (e.g., autism) after abuses and rising enrollment.
- Applicants must complete a video interview with a Disney staffer and a contracted medical professional; lying can trigger park bans.
- Disney cites DAS growth from ~5% to ~20% of guests over ~12 years as rationale; other aids include Braille maps, ASL interpreters, service‑animal access and quiet areas.
📊 Relevant Data
Approximately 1 in 6 children aged 3-17 years in the US have a developmental disability, with prevalence increasing from 7.40% in 2019-2021 to 8.56% in recent data.
Diagnosed Developmental Disabilities in Children Aged 3–17 Years — CDC
Autism prevalence in US children has increased from 1 in 150 in 2000 to 1 in 31 in 2022, reflecting factors such as greater awareness, improved screening, and changes in reporting practices.
Autism Society of America Responds to New CDC Report on Updated Autism Prevalence Rates — Autism Society
Over 70 million US adults, or 28.7%, reported having a disability in 2022, with the most common types being mobility (13.8%) and cognitive (13.6%).
CDC Data Shows Over 70 Million US Adults Reported Having a Disability in 2022 — CDC
Disney's DAS program usage increased fourfold due to abuses, with issuances rising from around 5% to 20% of guests over the past dozen years.
Disney's Disability Access Abuse Skyrockets by 300%, Permanent Bans Coming — Inside the Magic