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Class Action Lawsuit Challenges Disney’s New Disability Access Policies
Recent changes to Disney’s Disability Access Service (DAS) have ignited controversy, with many disabled guests voicing concerns that the new eligibility criteria unfairly exclude those with physical disabilities. While Disney has justified the changes as a necessary step to curb widespread abuse of the system, critics argue that the modifications disproportionately impact guests with legitimate disabilities. Now, a class action lawsuit has been filed against Walt Disney Parks and Resorts and Inspire Health Alliance in California, alleging that the new DAS policies violate disability rights laws.
Related: Disabled Guests React to Disney DAS Changes
The lawsuit, Malone v. Disney, was filed by Trisha Malone, a disabled guest who claims she was denied access to DAS despite her medical condition preventing her from waiting in traditional attraction queues. Represented by McCune Law Group, the lawsuit argues that Disney’s revised policies violate the Unruh Civil Rights Act, which prohibits discrimination based on disability, as well as privacy laws related to the handling of medical information. The complaint further alleges that Disney:
- Unlawfully restricted DAS eligibility to guests with developmental disabilities while excluding those with physical impairments.
- Required guests to disclose sensitive medical information in public settings, violating their privacy rights.
- Provided inadequate alternative accommodations that fail to offer equal access, creating logistical and emotional burdens.
- Coerced guests into signing unfair agreements, including a class action waiver designed to discourage legal challenges.
Adding an interesting twist, one of the attorneys bringing the case was a former moderator of the Facebook group Disney DAS Defenders, a community dedicated to advocating for disabled guests. In a post announcing their resignation from the group, the attorney confirmed their law firm’s involvement in the lawsuit and encouraged affected individuals to stay informed and share their experiences.
Related: Group Petitions Disney World & Disneyland Over Changes in DAS Program
While Disney has yet to publicly respond to the lawsuit, the company has maintained that its DAS program is intended for guests who cannot tolerate traditional queues due to developmental disabilities and that other accommodations, such as return times or ride re-entry, are available for those who do not qualify. However, many disabled guests argue that these alternatives are impractical and fail to provide an equitable theme park experience.
This lawsuit could have major implications for Disney’s approach to accessibility and its obligations under disability rights laws. With strong opinions on both sides, the outcome will likely set a precedent for how theme parks nationwide handle accommodations for guests with disabilities.
What do you think about Disney’s changes to the DAS program? Let us know in the comments.
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