What to know about changes to Disney parks' disability policies
3 minute readPublished: Monday, December 8, 2025 at 3:28 pm
Disney Faces Backlash Over Disability Access Program Changes
Disney is facing criticism and legal challenges over recent changes to its Disability Access Service (DAS) program, which allows guests with disabilities to bypass long lines at its theme parks. The program, designed to accommodate visitors who have difficulty waiting in traditional queues, has been modified, leading to accusations of restrictiveness from some disabled guests.
The DAS program, introduced in 2013, was initially created to address abuses by individuals who were charging able-bodied guests to use the program. The program has seen significant growth, with the percentage of guests using DAS passes increasing substantially. Disney has stated that the changes were necessary due to the program's expansion.
Under the new policies, eligibility for a DAS pass is now primarily focused on guests with developmental disabilities, such as autism, who have difficulty waiting in line. Potential pass holders must undergo a video interview with a Disney employee and a contracted medical professional to determine eligibility. Guests found to have misrepresented their condition can be banned from the parks.
Critics of the changes argue that the new criteria are too narrow and exclude individuals with other disabilities who also require accommodations. Some guests have been denied passes, citing the new policies as discriminatory. Disney maintains that the changes are in line with the Americans with Disabilities Act, which does not mandate equal treatment for all disabilities. The company offers alternative accommodations for those who do not qualify for DAS.
A shareholder proposal has been submitted, calling for an independent review of Disney's disability policies and the public release of the findings. Disney intends to block the proposal, arguing it is misleading and amounts to micromanaging day-to-day operations.
BNN's Perspective:
While Disney's efforts to curb abuse of the DAS program are understandable, the company must strike a balance between preventing misuse and ensuring accessibility for all guests with disabilities. The current changes appear to have created a situation where some individuals who genuinely need accommodations are being denied them. A more inclusive approach, perhaps incorporating a broader range of disabilities and considering individual needs, would be beneficial.
Keywords: Disney, Disability Access Service, DAS, theme parks, accessibility, disabilities, autism, shareholder proposal, legal challenges, accommodations, Americans with Disabilities Act, Universal, line skipping, park attendance.