A proposed amendment to a Florida transportation bill could increase state oversight of the Walt Disney World monorail system. The amendment, which was proposed by the Senate Transportation Committee, would require the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) to inspect and regulate the monorail system.
The amendment comes amid an ongoing feud between Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Disney over the company’s opposition to the state’s Parental Rights in Education bill, commonly known as the “Don’t Say Gay” bill. DeSantis has signed into law several bills that have targeted Disney, including one that stripped the company of its special tax district.
The proposed amendment to the transportation bill has drawn criticism from Disney, which argues that the state already has adequate oversight of the monorail system. The company also argues that the amendment is politically motivated and could have a negative impact on tourism.
“The Florida Department of Transportation has conducted regular inspections of the Walt Disney World Resort monorail system for decades, and has always found the system to be in safe and compliant operation,” Disney said in a statement. “This amendment appears to be an attempt to target Disney World specifically, and we are concerned that it could have a negative impact on tourism in our state.”
Supporters of the amendment argue that it is necessary to ensure the safety of the monorail system. They also argue that the state should have more oversight of the system, given its size and complexity.
“The monorail system is an essential part of the Walt Disney World transportation network, and it is important that we ensure its safety,” said Senator Jeff Brandes, chair of the Senate Transportation Committee. “This amendment will give the FDOT the authority to inspect and regulate the monorail system to the same standards as other fixed-guideway transportation systems in the state.”
The proposed amendment is still in the committee process, and it is unclear whether it will be included in the final version of the transportation bill. However, the amendment has raised concerns about the potential for further legislative attacks on Disney.
The feud between DeSantis and Disney is likely to continue in the coming months, and it is possible that the monorail system could become another target of the governor’s attacks on the company.
What are the potential consequences of this amendment?
If the proposed amendment is passed, it could have a number of consequences for Disney. The company would be subject to increased state oversight, and it is possible that the FDOT could impose new regulations on the monorail system. This could increase costs for Disney and make it more difficult for the company to operate the system.
The amendment could also have a negative impact on tourism in Florida. Disney World is a major tourist destination, and any disruption to the monorail system could discourage visitors from coming to the park. This could have a significant impact on the Florida economy.
What are the next steps?
The proposed amendment to the transportation bill is still in the committee process, and it is unclear whether it will be included in the final version of the bill. The Senate Transportation Committee is expected to vote on the amendment in the coming weeks.
If the amendment is passed by the Senate, it will then go to the full Senate for a vote. If the Senate approves the amendment, it will then go to the House of Representatives for consideration.
It is possible that the amendment could be removed from the bill during the legislative process. However, the amendment has already been approved by the Senate Transportation Committee, and it is possible that it will remain in the bill.
The feud between DeSantis and Disney is likely to continue, and it is possible that the monorail system could become another target of the governor’s attacks on the company.
