Disney Argues New Florida Law Nullifies DeSantis-Backed Suit
Disney World has filed a motion to dismiss a lawsuit brought by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, alleging that the recent passage of a state law nullifies the claims made in the suit. The law, which took effect on May 1, makes it more difficult for companies to be held liable for COVID-19-related injuries.
In response to the lawsuit, Disney argues that the new law should apply retroactively to all claims related to COVID-19 and that, as a result, the allegations made by DeSantis are null and void. The governor had accused the company of failing to take adequate steps to protect employees and guests from the virus.
The dispute between Disney and DeSantis began in April, when the governor sued the company over alleged safety failures. In the suit, he accused Disney of failing to implement sufficient safety measures and failing to adequately inform workers about the risks of the virus. Disney, in turn, argued that the lawsuit was without merit and that the company had taken extensive measures to protect employees and guests.
The recent passage of the new law has complicated the legal landscape for COVID-19-related lawsuits in Florida. Under the law, plaintiffs must prove that companies acted with gross negligence or intentional misconduct in order to be held liable for COVID-19-related injuries. The law also establishes a higher standard of proof for these claims, requiring plaintiffs to prove that their injuries were directly caused by the company’s actions.
The new law has attracted criticism from some legal experts and consumer advocates, who argue that it places an undue burden on plaintiffs and shields companies from responsibility for their actions. Supporters of the law, however, argue that it is necessary to protect businesses from frivolous lawsuits and to prevent a flood of COVID-19-related litigation in Florida.
Disney’s motion to dismiss the DeSantis lawsuit is scheduled to be heard in court later this month. The ruling in the case could have significant implications for future COVID-19-related lawsuits in Florida and beyond, as courts grapple with how to balance the needs of businesses and the rights of consumers in the midst of the pandemic.
In conclusion, the ongoing legal dispute between Disney and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis highlights the challenges of balancing public health concerns with the needs of businesses in the pandemic era. While the new Florida law has attracted criticism from some legal experts and consumer advocates, supporters argue that it is necessary to prevent an avalanche of COVID-19-related lawsuits. Ultimately, the outcome of the Disney lawsuit could have far-reaching implications for businesses and consumers throughout the state and the country.
