Disney ParksSyndication
Disney World Under Fire: “Insulting” New Policies Threaten Classic Attractions
Imagine stepping into Walt Disney World Resort and finding classic attractions fundamentally changed.
No longer just whimsical rides, but redesigned to include new features like bathrooms midway through queues or themed porta-potties at strategic points. This concept might seem bizarre to some, but for many Disney fans, especially those with medical conditions, it represents a potential change that could make their park experience significantly more enjoyable.
The idea of transforming beloved rides at the likes of Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and EPCOT to accommodate needs has ignited a fervent discussion among Disney enthusiasts. For those with chronic illnesses or disabilities, the convenience of accessible facilities within ride queues is not just a luxury but a necessity, many argue.
However, this discussion isn’t just about the physical changes to the theme park’s infrastructure. It highlights a deeper issue related to Disney World’s Disability Access Service (DAS) program. After weeks of anger, petitions, and legal arguments, May 20 marked the implementation of a new, more stringent DAS system at Walt Disney World Resort. The revised program has left many fans worried and disappointed, feeling that their needs are being overlooked in favor of stricter regulations.
One concerned fan shared, “This is what I’m concerned about, too. I have Crohn’s and utilized DAS previously and it really made a huge difference in my trip. I’m religious about taking my medication, my supplements, and watching my diet/trigger foods but sometimes when urgency happens there’s nothing I can do to prevent it and it’s a mad dash to the bathroom. I’m a grown woman who has literally shit her pants before. I’m very nervous about any upcoming trips.”
The new DAS system now requires guests to participate in a video conference with a cast member before their visit to determine eligibility. Additionally, the definition of qualifying conditions has been narrowed, now focusing primarily on developmental disorders like autism. This shift has reportedly intensified anxiety among those who relied on the more flexible old system, which allowed Disney World guests to obtain a DAS pass on the day of their visit after a brief meeting with a cast member.
Previously, the DAS pass was a lifeline for Disney park guests with conditions like IBS or Crohn’s disease, enabling them to receive a return time for attractions and avoid the stress of prolonged wait times.
However, the old system was susceptible to abuse, as some Disney World guests exploited it to avoid purchasing Disney Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lane passes, leading to longer wait times in the Lightning Lane for legitimate DAS users and those who had purchased the paid systems.
This misuse prompted Disney World to tighten the DAS program’s criteria and procedures, a decision met with significant backlash, but also understanding by one side of the fanbase.
In a social media thread, One fan suggested a practical solution to alleviate some of these issues: “I wish they would put a bathroom in queues at like the one-hour wait point. I’m sure there’s a reason they don’t but it would just be convenient.”
Another fan pointed out the logistical challenges of such an idea, “Sewage lines. They would have to rip up nearly the entire park to install new sections of sewage lines and you can understand why they wouldn’t between the mess and the time the rides themselves would be down.”
In response, another fan proposed a compromise, “Sure, and I totally understand why they don’t retrofit them. But when they build a whole new ride from scratch I have to imagine that’s something they can fit in to the plans. Maybe it’s hard to find space, or an expense, etc, but it would be nice. Maybe there can just be a point halfway through with a door and a cast member. They give you a card and you can go to the bathroom outside the ride and come back in or something.”
The practicality of these suggestions is debatable, but they highlight a common sentiment among many fans: the need for accommodations that consider the full spectrum of disabilities and medical conditions. The idea of themed porta-potties was even floated by another fan, though the issues with smell and maintenance were quickly acknowledged.
The changes to the DAS program have left many long-time users feeling anxious and unwelcome. The new system, while potentially more secure against abuse, appears less accommodating to those with conditions that do not fit neatly into the revised criteria. The requirement for pre-approval via video conference adds a layer of complexity that some find daunting.
Disney World’s intention to curb abuse of the DAS system is understandable, but the impact on genuine users has been profound.
The new Disability Access Service program will soon be introduced at Disneyland Resort as well, slated for June 18. It remains to be seen how these changes will affect guests on the West Coast and whether similar concerns will arise.
What do you think of this hot-button discussion about Disney World? Let us know in the comments!
This post originally appeared on Inside the Magic.
I have gone through the video-interview three times, each was a positive experience. I do worry, though, that my disability (advanced arthritis) will no longer be allowed. When asked why I didn’t use a wheel chair, I had to explain that my doctor wanted me to walk as relying on the chair froze the joints and increased the pain, as did standing still for long periods of time. So, I’m hoping the video-conferences continue and that cast members are understanding.
Dont go to the parks. Been going to Disney parks all my life and my parents even longer. Disney permanetely lost our business as Disney became a park for the rich which is seen from getting rid of Fastpass for the expensive Genie+ but the ultimate was when they changed DAS to only accommadate those with neuorological disabilities those with mobility health issues who cannot wait in lines are excluded in favor of supposed new accommadations which just serves to force them to either stop going or purchase Disney money scam Genie+. The message is clear Disney hates handicapped people who have genuine needs that require them to need to get a DAS pass. So much for Disneys tagline the happiest place on earth Walt Disney would roll over in his grave seeing that Disney has become a money pit who discriminates against those with genuine needs. Boycott these elitists.