DOJ Files Lawsuit Against SeaWorld Parent Company Over Mobility Device Ban
The United States Department of Justice has initiated legal proceedings against United Parks & Resorts, the corporate entity responsible for operating SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. The federal lawsuit contends that the company's recent prohibition of specific wheeled walkers and rollators equipped with seats constitutes a violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Allegations of Discrimination and Unfair Practices
According to the detailed complaint filed by federal prosecutors, the policy changes implemented by United Parks & Resorts have unjustly restricted access for numerous guests who depend on these particular mobility aids. The lawsuit specifically alleges that the restrictions have barred various individuals, including children and military veterans, from accessing the parks' attractions and facilities.
The Justice Department further claims that the company imposed unfair rental fees on guests with disabilities who arrived with the now-prohibited devices and refused to make reasonable modifications to its policies to prevent discrimination. Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division emphasized in an official statement that the ADA mandates equal access for people with disabilities, and theme parks like SeaWorld are not exempt from these requirements.
Company's Safety Defense and Legal Response
United Parks & Resorts has defended its controversial policy, asserting that the ban on seated rollators and walkers represents a necessary safety measure designed to prevent misuse of the devices. In a formal news release, the company stated, "United Parks & Resorts disagrees with the claims asserted in the Department of Justice's complaint and will respond through the legal process."
The company maintains that the policy was implemented to address repeated safety incidents involving the misuse of rollators with seats and was crafted to enhance guest safety while continuing to provide accessible options. "We offer alternative mobility devices at no cost to ensure guests can fully enjoy our parks," the statement continued. "We believe our approach is consistent with the requirements of the ADA and reflects our commitment to providing a safe and inclusive experience."
Legal Remedies Sought by Federal Prosecutors
The Department of Justice is pursuing multiple legal remedies through this lawsuit. These include:
- A court order compelling United Parks & Resorts to cease discriminatory practices immediately
- Mandatory updates to company policies to ensure alignment with federal disability law
- Comprehensive ADA training for all staff members across the affected parks
- Monetary damages to compensate individuals adversely affected by the policy
- Civil penalties to vindicate the public interest in eliminating disability discrimination
Background and Public Response
The controversy originated in November 2025 when SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens, and Aquatica Orlando updated their online guidelines to prohibit rollators and wheeled walkers equipped with seats, while still permitting models without seats. According to company officials at the time, the decision was based on safety concerns regarding how these devices were being utilized, particularly when used contrary to manufacturer requirements that strictly prohibit employing them as wheelchairs.
Following the policy implementation, FOX 35 Orlando reported a surge of public complaints, which prompted the Department of Justice to launch an investigation into potential ADA violations. The parks have since adjusted their procedures, offering to store prohibited devices securely and provide complimentary wheelchairs or seatless rollator walkers during visits. However, these accommodations have faced significant criticism from regular visitors.
In November, FOX 35 interviewed Nancy Schwartz, a frequent guest who relies on a wheeled walker with a seat. Schwartz described experiencing inconsistent enforcement, being permitted entry one day but denied the next due to the new rules. She expressed profound disappointment over the sudden policy change, noting that the park represents one of her favorite destinations, especially during holiday seasons.
The official policy listed on the SeaWorld website explicitly states: "For the safety of our guests and employees, rollator walkers with seats on them are not permitted at SeaWorld Orlando. Alternative personal transportation options, including standard wheelchairs and Electric Convenience Vehicles (ECVs), are available. Walkers without a seat are permitted." While the parks typically charge rental fees ranging from $40 to $100 daily for wheelchairs and electric scooters, the company has offered certain accommodations for those impacted by the ban.
