Disney’s Disability Access Service (DAS) system has undergone several changes over the last several years. These changes have not been without their controversies, but now a new change might be on the horizon.

Cinderella Castle

While the previous changes might have seemed small to some, they have had a large impact across Disney World and Disneyland. A new proposal for the system is being presented to shareholders in 2026. 

In 2026, Disney is set to include a new Disability Access Proposal. Previously, the Walt Disney Company withdrew a request that wanted to exclude a shareholder proposal regarding disability accommodations in the theme parks.

Disability Access Service Pass in 2021 before the changes

This request will impact the 2026 proxy statement, according to an SEC filing that was submitted by Disney’s counsel, Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale and Dorr LLP. The new proposal was submitted by shareholder Erik G. Paul. This proposal calls for an independent review of Disney’s changes to the DAS system that were made over the last few years.

Monorail at EPCOT

The proposal also calls for the review to focus on board-level oversight that can be related back to risks to any shareholder value connected to these changes. If you’ve never used the DAS system or understood it, Disney describes it as a system “intended to accommodate those Guests who, due to a developmental disability like autism or similar, are unable to wait in a conventional queue for an extended period of time.” 

Tree of Life

This system’s largest change came on May 20th, 2024, in Disney World and June 18th, 2024, in Disneyland. The change was that Disney partnered with Inspire Health Alliance to assist with its DAS approval process, which impacted a large number of DAS users. This switch included many policy changes and new rules, which is where the controversy came from.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

To use the system, guests must first register online and then speak with a Cast Member who can determine DAS eligibility. To be deemed eligible, you must participate in a live video chat, which has rules including:

• The recording of this video chat is strictly prohibited
• The Guest requesting DAS either for themself or for someone else (e.g. a minor child) must be 18 years of age or older to register
• The Guest for whom DAS is being requested must be present during the video chat.

You can register up to 60 days before your trip. You can see more of the details below.

©Disney

In Disney World, there is NOT an in-person option for DAS registration, but you can do a live video conference on the day of your visit if you don’t register ahead of time. In Disneyland, you can have an in-person meeting at an Accessibility Services Kiosk during a park visit if needed.

Sleeping Beauty Castle in Disneyland

DAS access can be available for up to one year after approval, but it will need to be renewed annually. Previously, the accessibility window was longer. Changes to the system also changed the party size for DAS users from 6 to 4 people or “immediate family.”

Expedition Everest

We will be sure to update you on any new proposals or changes regarding the DAS system. Be sure to keep following DFB for more Disney news, updates, and more.

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