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The U.S. government is suing SeaWorld’s parent company over a policy that allegedly blocked disabled guests from accessing its parks.
The lawsuit is filed by the U.S. Department of Justice against United Parks & Resorts which operates SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.
At the center is a “Wheeled Walker Ban,” introduced in November 2025, that prohibits walkers with seats that many disabled people rely on.
According to the complaint, the rule effectively turned guests away. The Justice Department says children, veterans and other disabled visitors were denied equal access, potentially violating the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
The lawsuit claims this is part of a broader pattern and says the company failed to make reasonable changes to allow guests to use their own mobility devices. It also alleges some visitors were pushed to rent alternatives instead.
The government is asking the court to require policy changes, ADA training and compensation for those affected.
United Parks & Resorts disputes the claims, saying the policy was based on safety concerns after incidents involving rollators. The company says it offers free alternatives like wheelchairs and electric scooters and believes its approach follows ADA rules.
The case is still unfolding, but it points to a bigger issue. Accessibility is not just about getting through the entrance. It means being able to move through spaces and use the mobility devices that actually work for you.
