Governor Ron DeSantis' Conflict with Disney Over Governing Board Control Raises Concerns for Theme Park Expansion
The ongoing conflict between Governor Ron DeSantis and Disney has intensified following the state's decision to seize control of Disney World's governing board. This move was a response to Disney's opposition to Florida's 'Parental Rights in Education' law, often referred to as the 'Don't Say Gay' law. Historically, Disney World operated under the Reedy Creek Improvement District, a special governing structure established in 1967, which managed infrastructure and services akin to a county government. However, in 2023, the Florida Legislature passed a law allowing DeSantis to appoint his allies to the board, effectively removing Disney's control. Recent court depositions reveal Disney's concerns about the impact of this takeover on their future theme park expansions, particularly as they planned significant developments in the Magic Kingdom. Disney's legal team, including the law firm Holtzman Vogel, worked discreetly to secure development rights before the new board took over, fearing retribution from DeSa... 
