Disney has revised its federal lawsuit against Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, focusing solely on matters related to free speech.
Disney alleged that DeSantis politically retaliated against the company for exercising its First Amendment right to free speech. The firm has decided to drop its other claims since it is being actively pursued in a separate state-level lawsuit.
(Photo : Octavio Jones/Getty Images)
ORLANDO, FL - MARCH 22: Disney employee Nicholas Maldonado holds a sign while protesting outside of Walt Disney World on March 22, 2022 in Orlando, Florida. Employees are staging a company-wide walkout today to protest Walt Disney Co.'s response to controversial legislation passed in Florida known as the “Don’t Say Gay” bill.
Disney Amends Lawsuit Against Florida Governor Ron DeSantis
Disney has revised its federal lawsuit against Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, narrowing its focus to the First Amendment claim of political retaliation.
The company had previously sought to remove other claims related to development contract disputes at Walt Disney World, as these are already under legal scrutiny in a separate state-level lawsuit in Florida.
In a statement to CNBC, a Disney spokesperson emphasized their commitment to defending these contracts, stressing the company's significance in making substantial investments and creating numerous job opportunities in the state.
This revision has reduced the document's length from 84 to 48 pages. Disney had previously amended its lawsuit in May to assert that DeSantis and his associates intensified their criticisms.
Disney has remained quiet regarding the parental rights bill, which led to criticism from certain employees. However, the company later took a firm stance against the law and halted its campaign donations in Florida.
On the day DeSantis signed the bill into law, Politico reported that Disney issued a strong statement, expressing regret that the bill had become law and stating unequivocally that the company's objective was to see the law repealed.
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Disney Opposing the 'Don't Say Gay' Bill
The Verge reported that the updated complaint marks the latest development in Disney's two lawsuits arising from its ongoing dispute with DeSantis that started last year when the company publicly opposed the contentious "Don't Say Gay" classroom bill.
DeSantis, as governor, has actively engaged in culture-war disputes. He has used the politically charged term "woke" to criticize Disney and has alleged that the company is sexualizing children.
These accusations were refuted by Disney CEO Bob Iger, who said they were unfounded and incorrect. Associated Press reported Disney's public opposition to the bill, which limits discussions about sexual orientation and gender identity in educational settings.
That prompted DeSantis and his allies to shift their attention to the special tax district that had previously granted Disney self-governance over its Orlando-area theme parks.
DeSantis implemented several measures aimed at restructuring the district, including a name change from the Reedy Creek Improvement District to the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District. He also replaced the district's previously appointed five-member board of supervisors with his chosen individuals.
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