The Walt Disney Company and representatives of Governor Ron DeSantis have agreed to a settlement, marking the end of a contentious legal struggle that captured national attention. This settlement comes after nearly two years of litigation and public disputes, which began with DeSantis’ takeover of the district governing Disney World, spurred by the entertainment giant’s opposition to Florida’s controversial education law.
Under the terms of the settlement, Disney has agreed to recognize certain agreements made prior to the state’s intervention as void, setting the stage for new negotiations. “This agreement opens a new chapter of constructive engagement with the new leadership of the district and serves the interests of all parties by enabling significant continued investment and the creation of thousands of direct and indirect jobs and economic opportunity in the state,” said Jeff Vahle, president of Walt Disney World Resort.
Governor DeSantis, speaking in Orlando, expressed satisfaction with the settlement, highlighting the state’s vindication in the actions it took against Disney. “I’m glad that they were able to do that settlement,” DeSantis remarked. “Those 11th-hour covenants and restrictions were never going to be valid. We knew that.”
The dispute began when Disney publicly opposed the “Don’t Say Gay” law, leading to a series of legal and political maneuvers by DeSantis, including the appointment of a new board to oversee the special tax district that encompasses Disney World. This move was seen as retaliation against Disney for its advocacy, leading to a lawsuit from Disney claiming that their free speech rights were being violated. However, a federal judge dismissed this lawsuit, and Disney appealed the decision.
The settlement, which also involves Disney putting on hold its appeal of the federal lawsuit, aims to clear the way for future development and cooperation. According to Richard Foglesong, a Rollins College professor emeritus and author on Disney World’s governance, both Disney and the oversight board benefit from ending the dispute. “It looks to me like both sides called ‘uncle,’” Foglesong observed. “Disney has an interest in ending this and so does the oversight board.”
The settlement is seen as a victory for both the state of Florida and Disney, promising a more collaborative relationship moving forward. This comes at a crucial time for Disney, which is preparing for a significant shareholder meeting amid challenges to its management and direction. The resolution of this dispute removes a major source of tension and allows Disney to focus on its expansive plans for the resort, which include the creation of thousands of jobs and substantial economic contributions to the state.
