Justice Department Sues SeaWorld’s Parent Company, Alleging it Violated Americans with Disabilities Act

The U.S. Department of Justice has taken legal action against United Parks & Resorts, the parent company of SeaWorld and Busch Gardens.

The case centers on a policy implemented across several of the company’s parks in November 2025, including SeaWorld Orlando, Aquatica Orlando, and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, which prohibits the use of rollators with seats.

The complaint, filed Thursday in Orlando federal court, argues that the restriction discriminates against guests with disabilities. The lawsuit follows an investigation launched by the Justice Department during the same month the policy was put in place.

SeaWorld Orlando’s website states: “Rollators with seats can pose a safety concern when not used properly, particularly when someone is seated and the device is pushed by another person. Despite reminders and previous steps, including requiring signed waivers, we continued to see misuse and safety-related incidents. For these reasons, rollators with seats are not permitted. For purposes of this policy, the term ‘rollator’ also includes wheeled walkers with seats.”

When the investigation began, SeaWorld’s posted rental prices showed wheelchairs starting at $40 per day and mobility scooters at $110. The company later stated that certain mobility aids, including standard walkers without seats and wheelchairs, would be offered at no cost.

Federal authorities argue in the lawsuit that the policy violates the Americans with Disabilities Act, which bars discrimination against individuals with disabilities in places open to the public. The complaint asks the court to rule that the company violated the law, order changes to its policies, provide compensation to affected guests, and assess penalties exceeding $118,000.

Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon, who leads the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, emphasized the agency’s position, saying, “The ADA requires equal access for people with disabilities, and theme parks such as SeaWorld are no exception. Under my leadership, the Division is committed to defending the rights of all Americans with disabilities, as the law requires.”

United Parks & Resorts said in a statement that it disagrees with the claims and maintains that its policy aligns with federal law.

“The policy at issue was implemented to address repeated safety incidents involving misuse of rollators with seats and was designed to enhance guest safety while continuing to provide accessible options for all guests.”

“We believe our approach is consistent with the requirements of the ADA and reflects our commitment to providing a safe and inclusive experience.”