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Families sue Disney over disabled access ride policy

Posted at 12:54 PM, Apr 12, 2014
and last updated 2014-04-12 21:52:48-04

ANAHEIM, Calif. (WTVR) — A new policy allowing guests with disabilities quick access to rides and attractions at Disney parks and resorts has angered some families.

Kid-free Vacations - DisneylandAs a result, some families of children with disabilities filed a lawsuit against Walt Disney Co. theme parks and resorts in Anaheim and Orlando, Fla. last week in U.S. District Court for the Central District of California, according to The Los Angeles Times.

According to the suit, the families said the new policy makes it so hard for visitors with disabilities, especially autistic children, to get on a ride that they feel unwelcome at Disney parks.

In the past, visitors with disabilities and their family members were given a card that allowed them to skip long lines, go to the front of the line and get on a ride. However, guests now are given a card that lets them to return to the ride at a scheduled time.

The suit alleges that current policy, which went into effect after reports of families hiring disabled people in an effort to bypass lengthy lines, discourages guests with disabilities from visiting the parks.

Disney representatives said their company completely complies with the Americans With Disabilities Act and dismissed the claims in the suit.

“Disney Parks have an unwavering commitment to providing an inclusive and accessible environment for all our guests,” the company said in a statement.

Click here to read more on this story from The Los Angeles Times.