The Department of Justice (DOJ) has initiated a legal action against United Parks & Resorts, the entity behind well-known attractions including SeaWorld and Busch Gardens. The lawsuit, which was lodged this week, centres on allegations of discrimination against visitors with disabilities. Specifically, the DOJ takes issue with the company’s policy, termed the “Wheeled Walker Ban,” which prohibits the use of certain mobility aids at their parks.
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Filed in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida, the lawsuit asserts that United Parks & Resorts’ policy violates the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The regulations, enacted in November 2025, restrict visitors with disabilities from using wheeled walkers that have seats—commonly known as rollators—within the park premises. This ban has reportedly led to several complaints from patrons unable to enter the parks with their mobility devices.
The complaint states that the policy has particularly impacted children, veterans, and other individuals with disabilities, thereby limiting their access to the attractions. Prominent parks, such as SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, and Aquatica Orlando, have all advertised this ban on their respective websites, clearly stating that rollators with seating are not permitted. Instead, the parks reportedly endorse the use of standard wheelchairs and Electric Convenience Vehicles (ECVs) as alternatives for mobility.
In their official documentation, SeaWorld Orlando justified the ban by asserting that it was implemented for safety reasons, in response to a number of incidents involving the misuse of rollators. The park claims that walkers without seats remain allowable, and alternative mobility devices are provided at no additional charge to ensure that visitors can still engage fully with the park experience.
Despite the company’s assertions, the Department of Justice claims there is reasonable evidence to suggest that United Parks & Resorts is entrenched in a consistent pattern of discrimination against individuals with disabilities. As part of the complaint, the DOJ is seeking a jury trial and has called for the company to cease its alleged discriminatory practices and amend its policies to align with ADA requirements.
Furthermore, the DOJ requests that United Parks & Resorts provide comprehensive ADA training to its employees and management team. They are also seeking monetary damages intending to compensate those affected by the enforcement of the Wheeled Walker Ban.
In response to the allegations, United Parks & Resorts issued a statement expressing their disagreement with the DOJ’s claims, indicating that the company will address the issues through the legal system. They maintain that their policy concerning the Wheeled Walker Ban was implemented with the intention of enhancing guest safety rather than limiting access. The spokesperson for the company reiterated the provision of alternative mobility devices at no cost, emphasising a commitment to ensuring an inclusive environment for all park guests.
The lawsuit underscores broader concerns regarding the accessibility of entertainment and recreational spaces for individuals with disabilities. By challenging this policy, the DOJ aims to ensure that United Parks & Resorts upholds the principles of the Americans with Disabilities Act, thereby fostering a more inclusive experience for all visitors.
As the case progresses through the legal system, it will likely attract considerable attention in both the media and the public sphere, highlighting the ongoing dialogue around accessibility rights in a variety of settings. The outcome of this lawsuit could have significant implications not just for United Parks & Resorts, but for similar organisations across the country, as they strive to balance safety considerations with the right to access for all individuals.