Full Breakdown
DOJ Sues SeaWorld's Parent Company Over Disability Access Violations
3/27/2026, 7:31:45 AM
Overview of the Lawsuit
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has filed a lawsuit against United Parks & Resorts Inc., the parent company of SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, alleging that the company’s ban on wheeled walkers with seats, known as rollators, violates the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The lawsuit, initiated by the DOJ's Civil Rights Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida, claims that this policy, implemented in November 2025, has denied equal access to individuals with disabilities, including children and veterans.
Core Allegations
The DOJ's complaint asserts that the ban on rollators prevents guests with mobility impairments from fully accessing the parks. The lawsuit highlights that the ADA mandates public accommodations, including theme parks, to allow the use of manually powered mobility aids in pedestrian areas. The DOJ contends that the policy disproportionately affects individuals who rely on these devices for mobility and rest.
In addition to the ban, the DOJ alleges that United Parks & Resorts imposed unlawful surcharges by requiring guests with disabilities to rent alternative mobility devices, which can cost between $40 and $100 per day. The lawsuit seeks a court order to compel the company to modify its policies, provide ADA training for staff, and award monetary damages to affected individuals.
Company Response
United Parks & Resorts has publicly disputed the DOJ's claims, stating that the policy was enacted to address safety concerns related to the misuse of rollators with seats. The company maintains that it offers alternative mobility options at no cost and believes its approach aligns with ADA requirements. In a statement, the company emphasized its commitment to providing a safe and accessible experience for all guests.
Criticism & Opposition
The ban has faced significant backlash from various groups, including veterans and families of children with disabilities. Critics argue that the policy not only restricts access but also imposes financial burdens on individuals who require mobility assistance. Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon emphasized the DOJ's commitment to defending the rights of individuals with disabilities, stating, “The ADA requires equal access for people with disabilities, and theme parks such as SeaWorld are no exception.”
What's Next
The lawsuit is currently pending in federal court, where the DOJ is seeking a ruling that would require United Parks & Resorts to cease enforcing the ban, modify its policies to comply with the ADA, and provide staff training on disability rights. The outcome of this case could have broader implications for accessibility standards in public accommodations across the state of Florida.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The ADA requires equal access for people with disabilities, and theme parks such as SeaWorld are no exception,” — Harmeet K. Dhillon, Assistant Attorney General
- “This complaint reinforces our commitment to holding public accommodations in the Middle District of Florida accountable when they engage in disability discrimination.” — Gregory W. Kehoe, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Florida
- “The policy at issue was implemented to address repeated safety incidents involving misuse of rollators with seats and was designed to enhance guest safety while continuing to provide accessible options for all guests,” — United Parks & Resorts Statement
This lawsuit underscores the ongoing challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in accessing public spaces and the legal obligations of businesses to ensure compliance with federal disability rights laws.
