‘Don’t Call Me Gay’ feud moves forward with new bill from Republicans in Florida

Tallahassee — Florida lawmakers will move to tighten state control over the private government of Walt Disney World, according to a notice released Friday.

According to a notice posted on the Osceola County website, the Republican-controlled state capitol will take up legislation to change the structure and authority of the Reedy Creek Improvement District, known as the 55-year-old Disney government.

No bill has yet been introduced detailing exactly what changes are being considered. This notice serves as a procedural step in the process highlighted between Disney and Florida.

Republican Governor Ron DeSantis last year signed into law a bill to dissolve the Disney government in June 2023.

Additionally, Disney said it would stop political donations in the state and support organizations that oppose the Education Act.

DeSantis and Republicans in the state legislature lashed out at Disney, saying the entertainment giant had become a purveyor of a so-called awakened ideology inappropriate for children.

The dispute marked a rare disagreement between Disney, one of Florida’s largest employers and major political donors, and the state. It also provided another front for him in the ongoing culture wars that have made DeSantis one of his most popular Republican supporters in the country.

The creation of the Reedy Creek district played a key role in Disney’s decision to build near Orlando in the 1960s. Having a separate government allows the company to provide zoning, fire protection, utilities and infrastructure services to its vast estates.

The wording of Friday’s notice is consistent with the assurances Republican lawmakers and DeSantis have made regarding the district’s future, including a pledge that the district’s debt and bond obligations will not be entrusted to local county governments.

The notice also states that the legislation is intended to strengthen the district’s state accountability, change how its governing bodies are selected, and revise permit rules and the district’s regulatory framework.

“Disney no longer controls its own government, lives under the same laws as everyone else, is responsible for outstanding debts, and pays fair taxes,” DeSantis spokesperson Taryn Fenske said in a statement. I will pay,” he said. statement. “Imposing a state-controlled commission also prevents Orange County from using this issue as an excuse to raise taxes on Orange County residents.”

Congress will hold its next regular session in March.