Disney set to invest up to $17B in Florida parks after settling DeSantis feud — here's what may come

Core Viewpoint - Disney and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis are nearing a $17 billion agreement that would facilitate the development of a fifth major theme park at Walt Disney World, following a settlement that ended their legal disputes [1]. Group 1: Agreement Details - The Central Florida Tourism and Oversight District, now overseen by DeSantis-appointed supervisors, has given initial approval for a new development agreement that will last for the next 15 years [3]. - Under the agreement, Disney is permitted to construct a fifth major theme park and two additional minor parks, such as water parks, over the next decade or two [3][4]. - Disney plans to increase its hotel capacity from nearly 40,000 rooms to over 53,000 rooms and expand retail and restaurant space by more than 20% [4]. Group 2: Obligations and Contributions - In return for the development rights, Disney is required to donate up to 100 acres of its 24,000-acre property for infrastructure projects controlled by the district [6]. - Disney must also allocate at least half of its construction projects to Florida-based companies and invest a minimum of $10 million in affordable housing for Central Florida [6]. Group 3: Background Context - The legal disputes between Disney and DeSantis were initiated after Disney opposed a Florida law known as "Don't Say Gay," which restricts discussions of sexual orientation and gender identity in early education [6][8]. - Following the takeover of the district by DeSantis appointees, Disney's previous agreements with the district were challenged, leading to a series of lawsuits that were ultimately settled in March [8][9].