Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis on Friday signed a bill into law that gives a new board he controls the power to void development agreements its predecessor body signed with Disney – the latest episode in a feud between the conservative governor and the entertainment giant.
The legislature formed the board in February to replace the Disney-controlled Reedy Creek Improvement District to oversee development in the 25,000 acres (10,120 hectares) surrounding Walt Disney World, effectively wresting control from the company and handing it to DeSantis.
Disney, the largest employer in central Florida, and the Republican governor have been battling since last year, when Disney criticized a new state law banning classroom instruction of sexuality and gender identity with younger children.
DeSantis, who is expected to declare his candidacy for U.S. president in coming weeks, has repeatedly attacked “woke Disney” in public remarks, characterizing it as liberal.
“We have a fundamental disagreement in this state, in terms of what we think is appropriate for children, and what the people in Burbank, California, think is appropriate,” said DeSantis. Disney is based in Burbank.
Before DeSantis’ appointees took over the board, the company pushed through changes to the special tax district agreement that limited the new body’s action for decades.
The new oversight body in April said Disney’s plans for potential expansion of Disney World did not comply with state law, and declared that agreement void.
DeSantis Signs Bill Allowing Fla. Board to Cancel Disney Deals | Newsmax.com
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