Disney shareholders officially voted down a proposal to investigate the recent overhaul of the Disability Access Service (DAS). During the annual meeting on March 18, 2026, Proposal 7 failed to pass with only 5% of the total vote. Shareholder Erik Paul introduced the proposal. It requested that Disney hire an independent third party to evaluate the legal and reputational risks of the program. By rejecting the audit, shareholders essentially endorsed the current restrictive policies that have frustrated many long-time fans.
Josh D’Amaro Steps Into CEO Role
The meeting also served as the official debut of Josh D’Amaro as the new CEO of The Walt Disney Company. D’Amaro officially took the reins at the start of the meeting, succeeding Bob Iger. In his first Q&A with investors as the sitting CEO, D’Amaro defended the current DAS system. He stated that medical experts helped build the program to match guests with the right support. Despite his “fan-forward” reputation, D’Amaro made it clear that no major reversals are currently on the horizon.
Institutional Investors Drive the Defeat
Massive institutional investors like BlackRock, Vanguard, and State Street drove the overwhelming “No” vote. These firms hold millions of Disney shares. They typically vote in alignment with the Board of Directors’ recommendations. Many individual retail shareholders supported the call for transparency. However, the sheer voting power of these financial giants made the outcome nearly certain. These major firms viewed the theme park changes as a minor business matter rather than a financial threat.
The Controversy Behind the Vote
Disney drastically narrowed DAS eligibility in 2024. The program now primarily serves guests with developmental disabilities, such as autism. This shift left many guests with physical or invisible medical conditions without their traditional accommodations. Advocates argued that these changes alienated a loyal demographic and created significant legal exposure. However, the Board of Directors successfully urged shareholders to vote against the review. They called the proposal “materially false and misleading.”
Legal Challenges Continue
The shareholder vote is a victory for Disney management, but the company still faces a significant legal battle. A class-action lawsuit, Malone vs. Disney, is currently moving through the California court system. The suit alleges that Disney’s new eligibility criteria violate the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). It claims the rules unfairly exclude individuals with physical disabilities. While shareholders rejected an internal investigation, a federal judge will ultimately decide if the program meets national accessibility standards.
What This Means For Your Next Trip
For guests planning a visit in 2026, the current DAS rules remain in effect. Registration still requires a live video interview with a health professional through the Disney website. Approvals are now valid for up to one year. After that, guests must re-apply. Disney continues to point those denied for DAS toward alternative tools. These include the “Rider Switch” program or the use of mobility devices. Always complete the registration process well in advance of your arrival.
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