In a major development that marks the end of a nearly two-year legal battle, a settlement agreement has been reached in the lawsuit between allies of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Disney over control of the Walt Disney World’s governing district. The Central Florida Tourism Oversight District board has approved the settlement, bringing an end to the contentious litigation.
The lawsuit was sparked by Governor DeSantis’ takeover of the district from Disney supporters following the company’s opposition to Florida’s controversial “Don’t Say Gay” law. The law, which was passed in 2022, prohibits classroom lessons on sexual orientation and gender identity in early grades and was championed by Governor DeSantis.
Governor DeSantis had used Disney as a target in his speeches until he suspended his presidential campaign. As a form of punishment, he took over the district through legislation and appointed a new board of supervisors. Disney then sued Governor DeSantis and his appointees for violating free speech rights, but the lawsuit was dismissed in January.
Before the control changed hands, Disney supporters had signed agreements that shifted control over design and construction at Disney World to the company. Governor DeSantis’ appointees claimed that these agreements neutered their powers, leading the district to sue Disney in an attempt to have the contracts voided.
In response, Disney filed counterclaims, asking the state court to declare the agreements valid and enforceable. After months of legal battles, both sides have now agreed to a settlement, bringing an end to the dispute over control of the Walt Disney World’s governing district. This settlement marks a significant turning point in the ongoing feud between Governor DeSantis and Disney.
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