News Summary
Disneyland and Walt Disney Parks are facing a class action lawsuit over alleged discriminatory practices in the updated Disability Access Service (DAS). Filed on February 10, the lawsuit claims the changes disproportionately harm visitors with physical disabilities. Critics allege the new screening process marginalizes those guests and raises privacy concerns. The update, introduced to combat misuse, has led to pushback from advocates seeking more inclusive eligibility criteria. Despite some adjustments to the program, many feel that Disney’s efforts fall short in providing adequate accommodations for individuals with disabilities.
Orange County, California – Disneyland and Walt Disney Parks are facing a class action lawsuit filed on February 10, 2025, alleging discriminatory practices in the park’s updated Disability Access Service (DAS). The lawsuit claims that the recent changes to the DAS program disproportionately affect visitors with physical disabilities, as the services have been restricted primarily to those with developmental disabilities.
The adjustments to the DAS program were introduced in the summer of 2024 in response to a perceived increase in misuse of the service, which had reportedly tripled due to social media hacks, leading to widespread abuse. The new policy includes a screening process that guests must undergo before qualifying for DAS, requiring them to return to specified times rather than wait in physical queues. Reports indicate that this process has effectively marginalized individuals with physical disabilities, as it places undue emphasis on eligibility criteria that may not adequately accommodate their needs.
Disney officials maintain that the allegations raised in the lawsuit are unfounded and assert that the updated DAS program offers fair accommodations for all entitled guests. According to scrutinizers of the new policy, the pre-visit screenings have also raised concerns over privacy rights, as sensitive medical information is evaluated in a public setting. This approach has led some to view the policy as invasive and unjust.
Participants in the lawsuit, including plaintiff Trisha Malone, have expressed significant challenges regarding the new DAS policy. Malone, who identifies as physically disabled, reported being denied access to the service despite her circumstances, leading to frustrations regarding Disney’s accommodations. Additionally, it has been alleged that Disneyland coerced visitors into signing waivers before undergoing evaluations for DAS accommodations, further exacerbating concerns about the process.
As alternatives to DAS, Disneyland has proposed options such as Rider Switch passes and wheelchair transfer accommodations. However, many argue that these alternatives impose unnecessary burdens on guests who genuinely rely on the DAS for a more manageable experience, particularly those who may struggle with long wait times or extensive walking.
The effects of these changes have not gone unnoticed, with research from the 2024 IAAPA Convention highlighting reported declines in park attendance and elevated anxiety among individuals with disabilities, owing to the stringent criteria implemented under the updated DAS policy. A coalition named DAS Defenders, which boasts over 17,000 disability advocates and Disney fans, is actively campaigning for the restoration of more inclusive eligibility criteria within the DAS program.
Some steps have been taken recently to address concerns surrounding the DAS program, including the removal of the term “only” from the description of the program’s intended audience. The time required to request DAS services in advance has also increased from 30 to 60 days, which was seen as a move toward improved accessibility. Nevertheless, critics continue to highlight ongoing inconsistencies in how the accommodations are applied, indicating a lack of comprehensive solutions for those in need of assistance.
Despite these ongoing controversies, Disney representatives have reiterated their commitment to providing enjoyable experiences for all guests, particularly those requiring special accommodations. Plans to enhance accessibility at Disneyland, including improvements to facilities and the introduction of better audio descriptions, are currently in development. However, many advocates believe these efforts fall short of adequately addressing the pressing needs of individuals with disabilities who visit the park.
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HERE Resources
Disneyland Faces Lawsuit Over Disability Access Service Discrimination
Additional Resources
- MSN News
- Wikipedia: Disneyland
- USA Today
- Google Search: Disney Disability Access Service
- Disability Scoop
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Disability
- KTLA News
- Google News: Disneyland Disability Access Lawsuit
- FOX LA News
- BuzzFeed News
- The Points Guy
- Google Search: Disney Disability Access Service Impact
- DAPS Magic
Author: Anaheim Staff Writer
Anaheim Staff Writer The Anaheim Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREAnaheim.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Anaheim, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as major conventions at the Anaheim Convention Center, including NAMM and VidCon, exciting games at Angel Stadium and Honda Center, and developments at Disneyland Resort Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce and Visit Anaheim, plus leading businesses in hospitality, entertainment, and innovation that power the local economy As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECostaMesa.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
