The Walt Disney Company is cracking down on individuals who make false claims of disabilities in order to exploit their Disability Access Services at their parks. Guests found to have lied in order to obtain these services will be permanently banned from Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort, with any previously purchased park products forfeited and not refunded. The Disability Access Services (DAS) allow those with disabilities to get a return time for attractions instead of waiting in line, and the new changes will go into effect in May and June of this year.
The criteria for qualifying for DAS has been changed to specify that it is intended for a small percentage of guests who are unable to wait in a conventional queue for extended periods due to developmental disabilities like autism. At Walt Disney World, all DAS registrations must now occur via virtual video chat starting May 20, with in-person registration no longer available at Guest Relations locations. At Disneyland, guests can apply for DAS using virtual chat or a dedicated window for same-day requests starting June 18.
Guests who currently have DAS will need to re-apply for the service under the new guidelines. Additionally, DAS is now limited to a guest’s immediate family or a group of no more than four unrelated people. These changes come in light of the ongoing challenge Disney faces with reducing wait times and better managing access to park attractions as attendance continues to rise and exploitative actions impact park planners.
The surge of fraudulent claims seeking to take advantage of Disney’s Disability Access Services has prompted the company to take action in order to prevent abuse of the system. The new restrictions and heightened scrutiny of individuals claiming disabilities at the parks are aimed at protecting the integrity of the service and ensuring that it is used only by those who truly need it. By implementing stricter policies and procedures for obtaining DAS, Disney hopes to deter fraudulent behavior and maintain a fair and equitable experience for all guests.
While the changes may inconvenience some guests who legitimately require Disability Access Services, Disney is prioritizing the need to address fraudulent claims and protect the integrity of the service for those who truly need it. By specifying the criteria for qualifying for DAS and implementing new registration procedures, Disney is taking steps to ensure that the service is utilized appropriately and responsibly. The company’s efforts to combat fraudulent behavior and maximize the accessibility of park attractions for individuals with disabilities demonstrate its commitment to creating a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests.
Overall, the tightening of restrictions and increased scrutiny of individuals claiming disabilities at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort reflects Disney’s ongoing efforts to address challenges related to park accessibility and wait times. By implementing changes to the DAS program and enhancing the registration process, Disney is working to improve the overall guest experience while also safeguarding the integrity of the service. These measures are intended to deter fraudulent claims and ensure that Disability Access Services are available to those who truly require them, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and accommodating environment for all visitors at Disney parks.
