Disney has made changes to its Disability Access Service (DAS) program. The program is Disney’s trip-planning service for those who are differently abled. DAS allows them to have various accommodations. These include designated parking assistance, wheelchair and ECV rentals, attraction wait time queues, and more. Disney can even provide sensory details and accessibility guides and cater to other medical needs during the stay.
Both Walt Disney World and Disneyland are making changes to their DAS policies, including possible bans. This change has followed a spike in demand for the accommodations that the program offers. The high demand has delayed the wait times and service provided to those who require accommodations. Since the program’s inception in 2013, the number of DAS park visitors has nearly tripled. That number is a significant amount of overall visitors and is still increasing. Some guests are likely taking advantage of the program. Learn more about the lifelong Disney ban and what the policy changes mean for DAS-applicable visitors.
DAS Application and Exploitation: The Disney Ban
While the program has been in existence for quite some time, there are some ways applicants have been deceptive. For one, the diverse nature of disability is complex. The program is also more accessible to travelers virtually so the application process takes place mostly online. Through a meeting with a Disney staff member, DAS users can get access to the helpful benefits of the program. Those with all types of disabilities can customize their accommodations for their visit to Disney.
What Is Disney DAS Exploitation?
The online format and difficult nature of vetting applicants have made it possible for some applicants to try to cheat the system. Disney does not require proof of disability or accessibility needs to qualify for DAS. This is due to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards. They do not allow a requirement to prove disability to gain accommodations for equal access. The ADA standard protects those with disabilities, making it easier and less discriminatory to have the same access as those without disabilities. The intention behind the standard is to prevent those with disabilities from having to jump through hoops. However, those who manipulate the program may completely lie or dramatize their condition for approval into the DAS program. The company’s new rules are in response to the manipulation of the program’s policy to curb future program abuse.
How Can DAS Exploitation Lead to a Lifelong Disney Ban?
The DAS program was established to assist differently-abled visitors to have a safe and comfortable experience while visiting the parks. For those who qualify for it, it is a great resource. However, Disney parks are starting to crack down on deceptive applicants who benefit from the program.
If applicants are found to have lied on their application in any way, there will be consequences. They will be “permanently barred from entering” both Walt Disney World and Disneyland. The ban even applies to guests who have already purchased their tickets or passes, but they will not be refunded. This possible lifelong ban is sure to help filter out false statements and ineligible applicants.
How Does This Impact DAS Users?
The new rules go into effect in May and June of 2024. Disney does not plan to require proof of disabilities from guests applying for DAS. There is one change that may impact a small number of applicants. When necessary, staff will work with healthcare professionals to determine eligibility for certain accommodations.
These new consequences for DAS abusers are supposed to ensure that the program’s accommodations are only utilized by eligible applicants. Eligible DAS applicants and current users of the program should anticipate minimal change to their Disney experience. Reducing the number of program abusers should lead to more efficient processing of applications and better overall service.
