Disney has settled a protracted legal dispute with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis regarding control of land near its Orlando resort, marking a significant victory for the governor.
The truce with the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District grants DeSantis greater influence over Disney's Florida operations and clears the path for the company to expand its theme parks and resorts in the state.
DeSantis hailed the resolution as being in the best interest of Florida, while Jeff Vahle, president of Walt Disney World, expressed satisfaction in ending the litigation.
The agreement nullifies a 30-year development plan that Disney had hurried through approval last year to bypass the new board backed by DeSantis, requiring Disney to adhere to an earlier, more limited land-use plan for future growth.
The conflict between Disney and DeSantis originated from Disney's public opposition to Florida's Parental Rights in Education bill in early 2022, which DeSantis strongly supported.
The bill, dubbed the "Don’t Say Gay" legislation by its opponents, prohibits teaching gender and sexuality in schools.
DeSantis criticized Disney as a "woke corporation," leading to a series of clashes culminating in the legislature stripping Disney of its authority over the Reedy Creek Improvement District.
The resolution of legal issues allows Disney to focus on long-term plans and investments, benefitting both the company and the state of Florida.