The dispute between Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and the Walt Disney Company has escalated to federal court, with immediate economic implications for the state. What began as a standoff over education laws has turned into an all-out battle for financial control and autonomy for the Orlando Park complex, one of Florida’s largest employers.
Then the conflict started Disney opposed the Parental Rights in Education Actknown among critics as “Don’t Say Gay.” The bill, signed by DeSantis, reportedly bans instruction and discussion of sexual orientation and gender identity in certain grades in elementary school. new york times.
Governor DeSantis viewed the company’s response as a challenge. ”If Disney wants to fight, they picked the wrong opponent.” the Republican wrote to his supporters.
The governor’s main attack focused on eliminating the special tax status that Disney World has had since 1967, according to reports. new york times. This designation allowed the mega-resort to function as its own county government. Parks can decide on plans, issue their own building permits, collect taxes for fire and medical services, and even generate electricity. This privilege saved Disney millions of dollars annually.
The Florida Legislature initially tried to abolish the special district, but stopped when it realized it would burden Orange and Osceola counties with $1 billion in debt and the cost of emergency services.
Congress ultimately allowed Disney to keep the district, but stripped it of its authority to appoint a board of supervisors. As reported new york timesyes, That power fell to DeSantis..
In response to this change, Disney entered into a low-profile development agreement at the last board meeting that limited the powers of a new board appointed by the governor. The agreement gives Disney control over future construction and prohibits the district from using the company’s name, Mickey Mouse or other characters without approval.
According to new york timesthe DeSantis-appointed board voted to void the agreement that gave Disney broad control over the resort. immediately, The company sued the governor She then argued in federal court against state authorities that she was the subject of “the government’s campaign of selective retaliation.” Disney insists its contract was legally approved.
To demonstrate the seriousness of his warning, Disney Construction of Orlando office complex halted. The project has invested approximately $1 billion and created more than 2,000 jobs.
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