DeSantis Launches Investigation Into Disney’s Last-Minute District Deal

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has called for an investigation into Disney’s recent deal with its previous district board, which he believes was an attempt to sidestep the authority of the new state-appointed board due to take over soon. In a formal request to the chief inspector general, Governor DeSantis requested an investigation into a variety of concerns including the district’s compliance with state laws and ethical requirements, the qualifications of the previous board, and any financial benefits or gain by Disney World from their actions. DeSantis signed House Bill 9-B on February 27, 2023, which created the new Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, replacing the Reedy Creek government, and three weeks prior to that date, Disney signed the deal with the previous entity. Governor DeSantis feels that the board and Disney’s “collusive and self-dealing arrangements” were created to nullify the recently passed legislation.

Disney has openly disputed these allegations, stating that all agreements were appropriate and agreed upon while complying with Florida’s sunshine law. The transfer of most of the old board’s authority to Disney, including thirty years of control over development rights, is unlikely to be remedied by the legislature any time soon, and Senate President Kathleen Passidomo has confirmed that the matter would be examined. However, she stated that the legislature had other priorities and it was doubtful that anything would be done in the near future. The annual legislative session ends on May 5. House Speaker Paul Renner said that he supports Governor DeSantis’ action thus far, but was unsure about whether legislative action would be necessary.