Malone v. Disney - Disability Access Service Class Action

A class action lawsuit was filed against Walt Disney Parks and Resorts in 2024 alleging that Disney's Disability Access Service (DAS) policies and practices systematically discriminate against individuals with physical disabilities and violate their rights to equal access, privacy, and dignity. The plaintiff, Trisha Malone, claims that Disney's DAS policies violate the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Unruh Civil Rights Act by imposing discriminatory eligibility criteria and requiring unnecessary public disclosure of sensitive medical information. The revised policy, introduced on June 18, 2024, limited DAS accommodations to guests with developmental disabilities, such as autism, while excluding individuals with physical disabilities. Previously, DAS was available to a broader range of disabled guests, including those with mobility impairments, chronic pain conditions, and other physical disabilities that made prolonged waiting in line difficult. Disney recommended "location return time accommodations" which were designed for guests using wheelchairs or mobility scooters as alternatives for those no longer qualifying for DAS passes. However, plaintiffs argue these alternatives do not provide equal access. The lawsuit is ongoing, with plaintiffs seeking damages and policy revisions to ensure compliance with disability laws. Disney's terms of service include forced arbitration clauses which may complicate class action proceedings.