Justice Department Investigates SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens, Aquatica Over Disability Discrimination Claims

Justice Department Investigates SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, and Aquatica Orlando for Disability Discrimination

The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida have started investigating United Parks & Resorts Inc. The focus is on whether the company has violated Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by discriminating against guests with disabilities. United Parks & Resorts, which owns or licenses brands like SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, and Aquatica Orlando, operates theme parks and entertainment venues worldwide.

The ADA bars public accommodations—including theme parks—from discriminating based on disability.

This investigation began after people with disabilities filed complaints saying that three parks ban the use of “rollator walkers.” According to these complaints, guests who rely on rollators can’t access the parks, and the only alternatives offered don’t fit their needs and come with extra costs.

Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon for the Civil Rights Division put it plainly: “The ADA protects every American from disability-based discrimination in places of public accommodation, including theme parks. We are committed to upholding our federal civil rights laws so that no guest is denied access or charged more because of a disability.”

U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida added, “Millions travel to Florida every year to visit our theme parks. No one should ever face barriers to equal access because of a disability. Our office is dedicated to making sure everyone with a disability receives the rights guaranteed by the ADA.”

Trial Attorney David K. Gardner from the Civil Rights Division’s Disability Rights Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexandra N. Karahalios from the Middle District of Florida are leading the investigation.

If you think you’ve faced discrimination by United Parks & Resorts Inc.—including at SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, or Aquatica Orlando—file a complaint online at www.civilrights.justice.gov or call the ADA Information Line at 1-800-514-0301 (TTY: 1-833-610-1264). To learn more about the ADA and the Civil Rights Division, visit www.ada.gov or www.justice.gov/crt.