Disney Faces Lawsuit Over Disability Access Policy Changes

Class action suit alleges Disneyland's stricter DAS criteria discriminate against physically disabled visitors and violate civil rights laws.

Overview

The lawsuit, filed by Trisha Malone in Orange County Superior Court, claims Disney's updated Disability Access Service (DAS) policy excludes individuals with physical disabilities.
Disney revised its DAS eligibility in 2024 to focus on developmental disabilities like autism, citing a surge in program misuse and tripled usage since 2019.
Malone alleges that the stricter screening process violates the Unruh Civil Rights Act, the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA), and privacy laws by gathering sensitive medical information in public settings.
The lawsuit seeks a return to the broader pre-2024 DAS standards, statutory damages, restitution, and attorneys' fees, arguing the current system imposes undue burdens and emotional distress.
Disney defends the updated policy, stating it provides a wide range of accommodations and works to ensure accessibility for all disabled guests.