(Tallahassee) Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill Monday that gives him control of the self-governing district of Walt Disney World, punishing the company for its opposition to a law deemed to discriminate against homosexuals.
The bill empowers Gov. DeSantis, a Republican, to appoint a five-member council to oversee government services the Disney District provides at its sprawling Florida theme parks.
Signing the law in Lake Buena Vista, DeSantis said there was a “new sheriff in town”, adding that the company would be held accountable.
The news comes as the governor prepares for a possible presidential race with the release of a book, slated for Tuesday.
The Disney District takeover began last year when the entertainment giant publicly opposed the so-called ‘Don’t Say Gay’ law, which bans teachings about sexual orientation and gender identity. Kindergarten through Grade 3, as well as any lessons deemed not age appropriate.
Mr. DeSantis moved quickly to penalize the company, ordering lawmakers in the Republican-dominated Assembly to dissolve the Disney Autonomous District during a special legislative session last year, beginning a closely watched process of restructuring.
In February, Governor DeSantis called on lawmakers to finalize state control over the district in another hastily called special session that signaled the governor’s willingness to wield state government power. to achieve political goals — a strategy that is likely to continue in the coming months ahead of his potential run for the White House.
The new law subjects the district to various layers of state oversight. Board members are currently appointed by entities controlled by Disney.