Disney, DeSantis Agree to End Lawsuits

Central Florida Tourism Oversight District board chairman Martin Garcia, right, delivers remarks as Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis listens during a news conference at CFTOD headquarters at Walt Disney World on Thursday, Feb. 22, 2024, in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. 
Joe Burbank | Orlando Sentinel | Getty Images

The two-year legal battle between Disney and Gov. Ron DeSantis ended Wednesday with the two sides agreeing to end the litigation, leaving Florida in control of the tourist district overseeing Disney World.

The lawsuits began after Disney opposed a Florida law banning sex education for young children in grade school. DeSantis then dissolved the Disney board, which for 50 years had overseen Disney’s land development. Multiple lawsuits followed.

As part of Wednesday’s settlement, Disney agreed to give the new DeSantis-appointed board control over the district, though with an agreement that they’ll consult with Disney on major changes. Disney also agreed to defer its appeal of a lawsuit against DeSantis.