DOJ Sues SeaWorld Owner Over Disability Access Policy

The United States Department of Justice (DOJ) has filed a lawsuit against United Parks & Resorts, the parent company of SeaWorld and Busch Gardens, over its policy banning certain mobility devices at its theme parks.

The lawsuit, filed on Thursday, alleges that the company’s restriction on wheeled walkers with seats—commonly known as rollators—violates the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). According to the DOJ, the policy discriminates against individuals with mobility disabilities who rely on such devices for accessibility and independence.

The DOJ’s Civil Rights Division has requested a jury trial in Orlando. The complaint seeks changes to the company’s current policy and demands compensation for affected visitors who have been denied entry with their rollators since the rule was implemented in November last year. The restrictions reportedly apply to multiple parks located in Orlando and Tampa.

Federal officials stated that several individuals, including two military veterans with mobility impairments, were stopped at park security checkpoints and prevented from bringing their rollators inside.

In response, United Parks & Resorts has denied the allegations and stated that it will address the matter through legal channels. The company explained that the policy was introduced due to repeated safety concerns involving the misuse of rollators with seats.

“The policy was implemented to enhance overall guest safety while ensuring accessible alternatives remain available,” the company said in an official statement. It also emphasized that substitute mobility options are provided free of charge to visitors in need.

The case highlights the ongoing debate between public safety measures and accessibility rights, with the court expected to determine whether the company’s policy aligns with federal disability laws.