Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is escalating his battle with Walt Disney Co. over land control. The ongoing feud between Disney and DeSantis started nearly two years ago when the company required its on-site staff to receive COVID-19 vaccinations. Now, DeSantis has unveiled a new legislative push targeting Disney that, if passed, would void a last-hour agreement they signed (CBS News). This agreement had given Disney more power over its land use through Reedy Creek Improvement District, a special government district that Disney created. DeSantis believes that Disney is abusing its power with this district and has appointed members that he believes work in Disney’s interests instead of the public’s. (The New York Times)
In response to this, DeSantis has suggested building a new state prison near Disney World (USA Today). While he insists that he and the state legislature can and will overturn any Disney development deal, many see this as an attempt to intimidate the company into submission. DeSantis has turned up the heat on Reedy Creek and threatened to make changes to its charter if it doesn’t fall in line with changes he wants to make (Deadline).
This dispute could soon end up in court. DeSantis has already fired another shot in his battle with Walt Disney Co. saying the state’s Republican legislature will consider a new bill aimed at controlling Disney World’s development plans (Reuters). While it’s unclear how this battle will end, it’s certain that tensions will continue to mount as DeSantis and Disney continue to clash over land use and power. (Tampa Bay Times)
