Florida — The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida have opened an investigation into United Parks & Resorts Inc., examining whether the company is violating Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by discriminating against guests with disabilities.
United Parks & Resorts operates or licenses seven major theme park brands, including SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, and Aquatica Orlando. The ADA prohibits disability-based discrimination by places of public accommodation, including theme parks.
The investigation follows multiple complaints from people with disabilities who allege that three parks unlawfully ban the use of certain walkers known as rollator walkers. Complainants say they cannot access the parks without their rollators and that the parks’ alternative mobility devices are unsuitable for their medical needs and require additional fees.
“The ADA protects every American from disability-based discrimination in places of public accommodation, including theme parks,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon. “We are committed to upholding our federal civil rights laws so that no guest is denied access or charged more because of a disability.”
U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe emphasized Florida’s role as a global tourism hub, stating, “No one should ever be denied equal access to public accommodations based on disability. Our office remains steadfast in our commitment to ensuring that all individuals with disabilities are guaranteed their rights under the ADA.”
The investigation is being handled by Trial Attorney David K. Gardner of the Civil Rights Division’s Disability Rights Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexandra N. Karahalios.
Individuals who believe they were subjected to disability discrimination at United Parks & Resorts properties may file a complaint online at civilrights.justice.gov or call the ADA Information Line at 1-800-514-0301 (TTY: 1-833-610-1264). Additional ADA resources are available at ada.gov and justice.gov/crt.
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