As part of the newest development in the ongoing conflict between the Republican governor of Florida and the multinational corporation, Ron DeSantis reportedly stated on Thursday that he is considering taxing Disney World’s hotels, placing tolls on the resort’s roadways, and developing the resort’s property.
Over the course of the past year, DeSantis and Disney have been engaged in a heated back-and-forth verbal spat.
After the entertainment giant publicly opposed Florida legislation that aimed to limit discussions regarding sexual orientation and gender identity in the classroom, DeSantis moved to strip Disney of its special self-governing status.
The legislation in question aimed to limit discussions about gender identity in the classroom.
“They are not superior to the people of Florida. So come hell or high water, we’re going to make sure that that policy of Florida carries the day.” DeSantis said during a recent event.
A plan to replace a board that is controlled by the firm with one that is overseen by appointees of DeSantis was approved by the Florida House of Representatives in February.
The law pertains to Disney World.
But, before to the vote, the board that was in place at the time enacted a series of agreements that made it possible for Disney to maintain a significant portion of its influence regardless of who was in charge.
On Monday, DeSantis sent a request to his chief inspector general, requesting that an inquiry be opened into the agreements that were approved by the boards. A
s part of the investigation, authorities would look into whether or not any laws had been breached.
In retaliation, the Chief Executive Officer of Disney, Robert Iger, referred to DeSantis’ actions as “anti-business” and “anti-Florida” during a shareholder meeting.
[READ MORE: DeSantis Claims GOP Has Developed ‘Culture of Losing,’ Contrasts it With ‘Culture of Winning’ in Florida]
