A class-action suit has been brought against Disney Parks after recent modifications to its Disability Access Service (DAS), a service aimed at assisting guests with disabilities in avoiding long wait times for attractions. The suit claims that Disney’s new policies unjustly limit access to accommodations previously offered to disabled visitors, raising concerns regarding discrimination and accessibility standards.
What Is Disney’s Disability Access Service (DAS)?
Disney’s DAS system offers support to guests with disabilities who cannot wait in standard attraction lines. Rather than waiting in line physically, DAS-eligible guests receive return times for rides so that they can wait elsewhere.
Recent modifications to DAS resulted in:
- Tighter eligibility standards, with additional documentation of disability required.
- Fewer automatic approvals, making it more difficult for some guests to qualify.
- Narrower windows of return times, restricting flexibility for guests.
Numerous Disney park visitors say these changes have made it much more difficult for disabled visitors to access the parks, prompting lawsuits.
Information about the Lawsuit
The class-action lawsuit contends that Disney’s new DAS policies are discriminatory under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by:
- Limiting access to required accommodations.
- Requiring guests to undergo excessive screening and explanation of their disabilities.
- Making it more challenging for people with mobility, cognitive, and neurological disabilities to enjoy the park.
The legal submission argues that Disney is favoring efficiency over accessibility and disadvantages disabled guests relative to past policies.
Guest Responses and Complaints
Numerous veteran DAS users have complained that the new stipulations make it more difficult to have fun in Disney parks. Grievances include:
- Confusing online sign-up procedures for DAS.
- More denials for conditions already approved.
- Fewer return times are available, making it more difficult to schedule visits.
One visitor posted about their experience online:
“I’ve been using DAS for years because of my disability, but since the changes, I was refused with no explanation. It seems like Disney is making it more difficult for people like me to come.”
Disney’s Response
Disney has justified the DAS policy modifications, saying they are intended to:
- Enhance fairness for all visitors.
- Lessen program abuse so that those with legitimate requirements get priority.
- Improve the overall guest experience by maximizing queue management.
A Disney spokesperson reinforced that the company is dedicated to accessibility and will continue making reasonable accommodations available for disabled guests.
What’s Next?
The lawsuit remains in its preliminary stages, and legal analysts believe it could take years or months to be settled. If Disney wins, it may be obligated to:
- Modify its DAS policies to make them ADA-compliant.
- Implement clearer guidelines for eligibility and application processes.
- Provide better transparency regarding DAS approvals and denials.
The class-action lawsuit against Disney’s DAS changes highlights ongoing tensions between theme park accessibility and operational efficiency. While Disney insists that the modifications improve the system, many disabled guests feel left out. As the legal battle unfolds, the outcome could shape future accessibility policies across theme parks and public venues nationwide.
