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Justice Department Sues SeaWorld Parent Company over Wheeled Walker Ban
The DOJ seeks policy changes, staff training, and over $118,000 in penalties after UPR barred rollator walkers with seats, restricting access for disabled guests, including veterans and children.
- On Thursday, the U.S. Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against United Parks & Resorts, alleging the company's ban on rollator walkers violates the Americans with Disabilities Act.
- UPR implemented the ban in November 2025, citing safety concerns about devices used as wheelchairs, which sparked complaints from veterans and children to the Civil Rights Division.
- Federal prosecutors allege UPR imposed "impermissible surcharges" by requiring guests to rent park-approved equipment. "The ADA requires equal access for people with disabilities, and theme parks such as SeaWorld are no exception," said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon.
- UPR disputes the allegations, stating its policy remains "consistent with the requirements of the ADA" and asserting it provides free alternative mobility devices to ensure guest safety.
- This lawsuit marks the second high-profile legal action against UPR this month, as Sesame Workshop separately sued the operator for refusing to pay royalty payments spanning a 45-year partnership.
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Associated Press News+3 Reposted by 3 other sources
DOJ sues SeaWorld's parent company over ban on wheeled walkers at their parks
The Justice Department has sued the company behind SeaWorld and Busch Gardens, saying its ban on seated wheeled walkers breaks disability rights law.
·United States
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources24
Leaning Left3Leaning Right3Center17Last UpdatedBias Distribution74% Center
Bias Distribution
- 74% of the sources are Center
74% Center
13%
C 74%
13%
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