UPDATE 2/1/2024: Disney Parks and Resorts has filed a notice of its intent to appeal Judge Winsor’s decision to dismiss its First Amendment lawsuit against Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District.
UPDATE: Since the ruling, Disney has issued the following statement:
This is an important case with serious implications for the rule of law, and it will not end here. If left unchallenged, this would set a dangerous precedent and give license to states to weaponize their official powers to punish the expression of political viewpoints they disagree with. We are determined to press forward with our case.
Disney Spokesperson
We haven’t recently reported on the ongoing First Amendment lawsuit that Walt Disney Parks & Resorts filed against Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District members back in April 2023, but there’s big news today.
Federal Judge Allen Winsor has dismissed the case, stating that it lacks adequate evidence and doesn’t meet legal standards for a lawsuit. The court clerk’s entry will read as follows:
This case was resolved on motions to dismiss. Plaintiff’s claims against the Governor and the Department Secretary are dismissed without prejudice for lack of subject matter jurisdiction. Plaintiff’s claims against the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District board members are dismissed on the merits for failure to state a claim.
The entire 17-page ruling is below.
Senior Editor for the DIS and DCL Fan | Disney Vacation Club Member | Thrilled to have been a '13/'14 Disney Parks Moms Panelist (now planDisney) | Lover of all things Disney; the Magic of Disneyland, Walt Disney World, and Disney Cruise Line | ºoº
