UPDATE on the New Florida Bill That Could Impact Automatic Gratuity at Disney World

Things could be changing at Disney World restaurants, thanks to a new Florida bill.

One of our meals at Homecomin’

We previously reported that HB 535 was making its way through the Florida State House and had passed its first committee approval. The bill would make it easier for restaurants or hotels to remove someone who is not paying their bill. The bill would also “ban automatic gratuity and service charges for parties of fewer than six guests at restaurants, cafes, and other food service establishments.” It would also not require automatic gratuity for parties of more than six guests for those who complain to a manager about the quality of service. Now, we have an update on that bill.

The House Bill HB 535 has been laid on the table, but this bill is now basically done for, and a new similar bill is in play in the Senate, SB 606. The new bill would require restaurants to include a notice on the food menu, written contract, website, and mobile apps that “includes the amount or percentage of the operations charge and the purpose of the operations charge. “

Summer House on the Lake in Disney Springs

It would also require that each copy of the receipt a customer receives must have separate lines for gratuity, an operations charge, and sales tax “so that it is clear to the customer what is being charged.” If that operations charge includes automatic gratuity, the receipt must have it stated on a separate line.

Cinderella’s Royal Table

Note that this new law would not apply to dining plans, dining packages, or a fixed-price meal “for which the price of the plan or package or meal is disclosed to the customer before purchase.” This new law, which would be effective as of July 1st, 2026, has already passed both the Florida House and Senate, so we’ll be keeping an eye out for more updates to get you more details.

Stay tuned to DFB for more.

Everything you need to know about tipping in Disney restaurants

Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!

WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.

Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.

Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!

What do you think of this bill? Let us know in the comments!