Disney Files Lawsuit Against Florida Governor and State, Alleging Retaliation for Protected Speech

ORLANDO, FL — Walt Disney Parks and Resorts U.S., Inc. (“Disney”) filed a lawsuit yesterday against Governor Ron DeSantis and the State of Florida, claiming that a targeted campaign of government retaliation has jeopardized their economic future in the region and violated their constitutional rights. This comes after the state’s oversight board voided development contracts that had been previously agreed upon, threatening billions of dollars in investments and thousands of jobs.

Disney alleges that the retaliation is a direct result of their protected speech, in which they expressed an opinion on state legislation. The company claims that Governor DeSantis and his allies have weaponized government power against them, not only voiding the development agreement but also threatening taxes on hotels, tolls on roads, and even placing a state prison next to Walt Disney World.

In the lawsuit, Disney highlights the significant economic impact it has had on Central Florida over the past five decades, stating it is one of the state’s largest taxpayers and employers. The company plans to invest over $17 billion in Walt Disney World over the next decade, creating an estimated 13,000 new jobs in that time period.

Disney is seeking relief from the court, arguing that the actions taken by the state are clear violations of their federal constitutional rights, including the Contracts Clause, the Takings Clause, the Due Process Clause, and the First Amendment.

Governor DeSantis has yet to issue a public statement in response to the lawsuit. The legal battle between Disney and the State of Florida has just begun, and it remains to be seen how it will unfold and impact the future of the iconic theme park and the surrounding area.