The Justice Department filed a federal lawsuit Thursday accusing United Parks & Resorts Inc. of discriminating against people with disabilities at its theme parks, including SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Discovery Cove Orlando and Aquatica Orlando. The Civil Rights Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida allege the company maintains a policy that bans guests from using wheeled walkers with seats, known as rollators, inside its parks. The lawsuit claims this policy violates Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
“The ADA requires equal access for people with disabilities, and theme parks such as SeaWorld are no exception,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Under my leadership, the Division is committed to defending the rights of all Americans with disabilities, as the law requires.” United Parks & Resorts operates a dozen parks and attractions across the country, with four major facilities located in Central Florida.
“The ADA requires theme park companies like UPR to provide guests with equal access, regardless of ability,” added U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida. “This complaint reinforces our commitment to holding public accommodations in the Middle District of Florida accountable when they engage in disability discrimination.” Federal officials say they took action after receiving multiple complaints from people who said they were not allowed to enter the parks with their walkers.
The lawsuit claims the policy has prevented children, veterans and others with disabilities from accessing the parks. Federal prosecutors also allege that United Parks & Resorts imposes impermissible surcharges on guests with disabilities for mobility equipment rentals and has failed to make reasonable changes to its policies when needed. The company’s rollator ban affects visitors who rely on these wheeled walkers with seats for mobility assistance.
The Americans with Disabilities Act requires public accommodations, including theme parks, to provide equal access to people with disabilities. Title III of the ADA specifically prohibits discrimination in places of public accommodation and requires businesses to make reasonable modifications to their policies and procedures. The law has been in effect since 1990 and applies to all commercial facilities open to the public.
SeaWorld Orlando, located in Orange County, attracts millions of visitors annually and features marine life shows and thrill rides. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay in Hillsborough County combines wildlife experiences with roller coasters and other attractions. Discovery Cove Orlando offers swimming experiences with dolphins and other marine animals, while Aquatica Orlando serves as the company’s water park in Central Florida.
The Justice Department is asking a federal court to order United Parks & Resorts to change its policies regarding wheeled walkers and train employees on ADA requirements. The lawsuit seeks to ensure that guests with disabilities can access all areas of the theme parks without facing discriminatory barriers or additional charges for necessary mobility equipment.