Disney has dropped their appeal in the first amendment lawsuit against Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, which effectively ends the years-long back and forth that started with Disney’s opposition to the so-called “Don’t Say Gay” bill, according to a report from Variety.
What’s Happening:
- The Walt Disney Company has dropped their appeal today (June 13th, 2024) in their first amendment lawsuit against Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.
- The move effectively ends a back & forth that had started over two years ago when the company (led by then-CEO Bob Chapek) opposed a state law enacted, commonly referred to as the “Don’t Say Gay” bill.
- The dropping of the appeal comes only a day after a Florida state board approved a 15-year development agreement, which will allow the company to invest up to $17 billion dollars to expand the parks and offerings at Walt Disney World in Orlando.
- The years-long battle had already left Disney in a lesser position, as they lost control over Reedy Creek Improvement District, a government body that was put in place ahead of the construction of Walt Disney World back in 1967. Gov. Ron DeSantis implemented the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District (CFTOD) in its place, effectively taking control away from the Walt Disney Company when it comes to determining what can and can’t be done with their over 40 square miles of property.