The U.S. Department of Justice has begun an investigation into United Parks & Resorts Inc., the parent company of SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, and Aquatica Orlando, over allegations of disability discrimination. The inquiry will determine whether the company is violating Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by restricting access for guests with disabilities.
According to complaints received by the Department, some visitors claim that these parks prohibit the use of certain mobility devices known as “rollator walkers.” Complainants say they are unable to enter the parks without their rollators and that alternative mobility aids offered by the parks are not suitable for their specific needs and may result in additional costs.
“The ADA protects every American from disability-based discrimination in places of public accommodation, including theme parks,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon for the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “We are committed to upholding our federal civil rights laws so that no guest is denied access or charged more because of a disability.”
“Every year, millions of people from around the world travel to Florida to visit our theme parks,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida. “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 case is being handled by Trial Attorney David K. Gardner from the Civil Rights Division’s Disability Rights Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexandra N. Karahalios from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida.
Individuals who believe they have experienced disability discrimination at any United Parks & Resorts property are encouraged to file a complaint with the Civil Rights Division online or contact the Department’s ADA Information Line.
