After Getting Their Development Deal, Disney Drops Its Lawsuit Against Ron DeSantis

Just one day after the Ron DeSantis-appointed Central Florida Tourism Oversight District (CFTOD) agreed to a new $17 billion development plan for Walt Disney World, Disney has agreed to drop its federal lawsuit against the Florida Governor.

As a quick recap, Disney was suing DeSantis and his allies over the dissolution of the Reedy Creek Improvement District. Disney had argued in federal court that DeSantis dissolved Reedy Creek and replaced it with the CFTOD in retaliation for Disney speaking out against Florida’s Parental Rights in Education law.

Photo: Maria Tamo/Getty Images

While Disney lost their First Amendment case, the company had vowed to appeal.

Meanwhile, in state court, the CFTOD was suing Disney over last-minute binding agreements that the company made with Reedy Creek in the waning days of the special district’s existence. Disney countersued the DeSantis-allied district, arguing that the CFTOD had failed to execute its duty and adhere to the agreements.

Photo: Fox Business

A Settlement Was Reached Earlier This Year

Earlier this year, Disney and CFTOD reached a settlement.

After the composition of the CFTOD board was changed, Disney agreed to accept the new power structure in Florida, ending the state court suit. Additionally, Disney said that should the CFTOD accept the settlement terms, they would not continue their federal case.

Photo: CFTOD

Part of those terms required the CFTOD to approve a new Disney World development plan.

Disney Gets Their Deal and Drops the Suit

With that hurdle now cleared, Disney has officially dropped their First Amendment lawsuit against DeSantis.

Cinderella Castle

After news of the new development deal had been reached, a DeSantis spokesman praised the agreement.

“This agreement is a big win for central Florida and will lead to numerous jobs and improved guest experiences,” said Bryan Griffin, communications director for the governor’s office, according to the AP.

Ron DeSantis

With their legal disputes behind them, and a new development deal in place, it looks like it is back to business as usual for Disney and Florida.

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