The Battle Between Disney and DeSantis is Officially Over

It’s been over 2 years since Disney and the state of Florida first got involved in a heated battle. After many ups and downs, the dispute is officially over. See how it ended right here.

Disney vs DeSantis

Disney World's Main Street USA Will Look Different Soon! — Credit: Maggie

Back in early 2022, Disney and the state of Florida got into a heated debate after Florida passed the Parental Rights in Education Law.

The Walt Disney Company originally remained quiet surrounding this bill despite pleas from employees and fans for them to take an official stance. Tension built until then-CEO Bob Chapek denounced the bill, but many believed it was too little, too late.

The tension between the company and the state continued to worsen as state Republicans repealed the Reedy Creek Improvement Act of 1967. This brought big operational changes to how Walt Disney World is run.

Federal Case

Disney CEO Bob Iger Now Has an Honorary Title — Credit: Disney

Bob Iger stated that although The Walt Disney Company did not handle the response to the Parental Rights in Education Law in the best way, he does feel that DeSantis is punishing the Walt Disney Company for practicing free speech.

This is what caused Disney to sue the state of Florida in a federal case over freedom of speech.

So, what happened? What change occured that urged Disney to drop the case?

Approval of Development Agreement

magic kingdom happily ever after fireworks castle — Credit: Susan

Disney World and the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District just agreed on a 15-year development agreement. This allows Disney to invest up to $17 Billion to expand its theme parks in the Central Florida area.

“This agreement provides a lasting, sustainable, and prosperous future for the distsrict, the people of Florida, and The Walt Disney Company.”
Brian Aungst Jr, board member for CFTOD

With this agreement, Disney has dropped its appeal for the federal case against the state of Florida. Back in March, Disney and DeSantis basically dropped all other disputes. So with that, the 2-year long battle has come to an end.

Do you think Disney and DeSantis should have been fighting all along? Or, do you think there was a different way things could have been handled? Let us know in the comments below, and share this post with a friend.