DOJ Investigates SeaWorld Orlando's Parent Company for Disability Discrimination
The U.S. Department of Justice has initiated an investigation into SeaWorld Orlando’s parent company, United Parks & Resorts Inc, over complaints that the parks' ban on rollator walkers discriminates against guests with disabilities. The investigation will focus on whether SeaWorld Orlando, Aquatica Orlando, and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay violate the Americans with Disabilities Act by not allowing rollator walkers, which have wheels and a seat. This act prohibits discrimination based on disability by public accommodations, including theme parks.
The complaints stated that guests with disabilities were unable to access the parks without their rollator walkers, and the only alternative offered by the parks would require them to rent other mobility aids that were not suitable for their disabilities. The U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Florida emphasized the importance of ensuring that individuals with disabilities are granted their rights under federal law, especially in popular tourist destinations like Florida's theme parks.
The Department of Justice, through its civil rights division, informed the CEO of United Parks & Resorts Inc about the investigation and requested a meeting to discuss the matter. The company's websites for the three parks mention the ban on rollator walkers with seats but allow walkers without seats. They offer standard wheelchairs and electric convenience vehicles for rent, with prices starting at $40 for wheelchairs and $110 for ECVs. The parks justify the ban on rollator walkers for reasons related to safety and pathway configurations.
The DOJ letter highlighted that requiring visitors with disabilities who use rollator walkers to rent alternative devices could potentially violate the law. The company has not yet responded to the DOJ's request for comment. The investigation aims to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their disabilities, have equal access to public accommodations like theme parks.