ALLEGEDLY DISCRIMINATED AGAINST HANDICAPPED…
ORLANDO, FL (BocaNewsNow.com) (Copyright © 2025 MetroDesk Media, LLC) — Federal authorities launched an investigation Tuesday into United Parks & Resorts Inc., the parent company of SeaWorld and Busch Gardens, to determine if the theme park giant is discriminating against guests with disabilities. The probe, announced jointly by the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida, centers on potential violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
United Parks & Resorts is a major player in the global entertainment industry, owning or licensing seven distinct brands. The investigation specifically targets practices at three of its most popular Florida destinations: SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, and Aquatica Orlando. Under the ADA, public accommodations like theme parks are strictly prohibited from discriminating against individuals based on disability.
The inquiry stems from multiple complaints filed by guests who allege the parks have banned the use of “rollator walkers”—wheeled walkers often equipped with seats. According to the Justice Department, complainants say they are unable to navigate the parks without these specific devices. Furthermore, guests allege that the only alternatives offered by the parks are inappropriate for their specific medical needs and require them to pay additional rental fees.
“The ADA protects every American from disability-based discrimination in places of public accommodation, including theme parks,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Civil Rights Division. “We are committed to upholding our federal civil rights laws so that no guest is denied access or charged more because of a disability.”
Federal officials emphasized the importance of equal access in a state heavily reliant on tourism. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe noted that millions of visitors travel to Florida annually to visit these attractions. “No one should ever be denied equal access to public accommodations based on disability,” Kehoe said. “Our office remains steadfast in our commitment to ensuring that all individuals with disabilities are guaranteed their rights under the ADA.”
The case is being managed by a team of federal prosecutors specializing in civil rights. Trial Attorney David K. Gardner of the Civil Rights Division’s Disability Rights Section is working alongside Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexandra N. Karahalios from the Middle District of Florida to lead the investigation
