After a widely publicized spat over the company’s political activities, Disney is now reportedly suing Florida Governor Ron DeSantis after the company lost its self-governing status.
On Wednesday, a complaint was submitted by Walt Disney Parks and Resorts U.S., Inc. to the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida.
After voting to void two development contracts that Disney had signed in February, the board DeSantis established to oversee the Central Florida Tourist Oversight District, which includes the Walt Disney World resort, filed the complaint.
Courts are now involved in the dispute between DeSantis and Disney, which started when the latter campaigned to repeal Florida’s Parental Rights in Education statute, which its critics incorrectly referred to as the “Don’t Say Gay” law.
DeSantis replied by urging the Florida legislature to remove Disney’s self-governing power and establish a new board, made up of his own nominees, which now has control over the development of the theme park.
DeSantis is anticipated to soon announce a run for president in 2024.
But, Disney pushed through modifications to the special tax district agreement before the new board assumed power, limiting the board’s ability to act for decades.
The DeSantis board said on Wednesday that Disney’s action to maintain control over their property was in fact illegal and carried out without the required amount of public notice.
Disney is requesting that the court rule the legislative moves illegal and unenforceable.
The lawsuit is the latest in the unfolding war between the entertainment giant and the DeSantis administration.
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