Disney and DeSantis reach detente
The Florida governor and Disney settle a yearslong litigation over control of the tourism district
What happened
The board of the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District (CFTOD), handpicked by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) to take over governance of the area including Disney World, approved a settlement Wednesday with The Walt Disney Co. The agreement ends a yearslong battle between Disney and DeSantis stemming from Disney's opposition to Florida's GOP-backed "Don't Say Gay" bill.
Who said what
The settlement "opens a new chapter of constructive engagement" with the CFTOD board and enables "significant continued investment" in the state, said Walt Disney World President Jeff Vahle. A DeSantis spokesperson said the administration stands ready to "work with Disney and the district to help promote economic growth, family-friendly tourism and accountable government."
The commentary
Wednesday's settlement "lifts a significant barrier" to Disney World's "continued development" and suggests Disney may seek a "potential resolution of a related federal case," CNBC said.
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What next?
Disney's relationship with the CFTOD will now be governed by an earlier "2020 comprehensive plan" in which the district agreed to "consult with Disney" over any reviews and amendments, The Orlando Sentinel said.
