Congressman Michael Waltz Available

Florida Republican Weighs in on Disney World's Implosion

FL Senate & House Vote to Strip Disney of Its Self Government

Florida’s Republican-led House voted Thursday to approve a bill eliminating the Walt Disney Company’s special tax districtwhich allows it to self-govern its land, sending the measure to Gov. Ron DeSantis’ desk to be signed into law. 

The bill passed by a 70-38 vote and is expected to be signed by the Republican governor, who earlier this week announced lawmakers would consider the termination of special districts in the state – including the Reedy Creek Improvement District, on which Disney World sits.

If signed, the legislation would not take effect until June 2023 and would affect six districts in Florida. 

Reedy Creek was created in 1967 to help persuade Disney to locate its East Coast theme park in the Sunshine State.

The agreement has given Disney wide-ranging autonomy over environmental protections and public services, as well as control over local police and fire departments on the land where the Florida theme park sits. Disney has also been responsible for operating and maintaining public roads and bridges.

GOP Congressman Michael Waltz (FL-6) is author of the new BRAVE Book, Dawn of the BRAVE.