As we have previously reported, the DAS passes for Walt Disney World have changed and the new rules officially began today. The way Disney used to do things has been drastically altered so there are some important details that you’ll need to know before your next trip. Our friend Greg at Fantasy Land News did a great breakdown of how the new system works, here’s what he had to say-
As of 7:00 AM this morning, when the DAS Live Chat opened, Disability Access Service is no longer available for the majority of people who have previously used the DAS Pass in Walt Disney World. New rules have been implemented and if you or someone you visit the parks with want to enjoy the current ride system there are new rules you must understand.
Furthermore, you need to pay attention to what you are asked to sign, and any long-term rules that may affect your park experience. For example, if the DAS Cast Member determines you do not qualify, or the guest you are helping receives an answer you do not agree with there is now nothing you can do about it, and you will absolutely not be able to “get the manager”. If you are told no, then no it is forever. “Once you get a NO, there is absolutely ZERO chance to get the decision overturned or updated!”
Disney knows that the Disablity Community holds corporations accountable to ADA standards. I cannot tell you the legal parameters of how this does or does not follow those guidelines, but Disney must be concerned. Why? The simple answer is they added a new rule you MUST sign in the Terms of Service before you can proceed to talk to a DAS Cast Member.
“I understand that after an individualized discussion regarding my personal circumstances, I may be offered DAS, alternative accommodations, or no accommodation at all. I agree that any lawsuit I may file, or participate in, challenging this decision, the individualized discussion, or the overall process itself, shall be conducted only on an individual basis and not as a plaintiff or class member in a purported class, consolidated or representative action or proceeding.“
“Disney Parks have an unwavering commitment to providing a welcoming, inclusive environment and accessible experiences for our Guests. DAS is one of the programs offered at Walt Disney World Resort theme parks intended to accommodate those Guests who, due to a developmental disability like autism are unable to wait in a conventional queue for an extended period of time.”
Who qualifies for DAS under the new rules – Those on the Autistic Spectrum (and that is it!). Autism is the ONLY qualifier. Even then, some aspects of Autism and Neurodivergence will be asked how they are accommodated outside of the parks to see if they could qualify. Some may not qualify at all. Those who qualify must fall under a new measuring stick of ‘would that person leave the line and not come back’.
Who does not qualify – PTSD, ADHD, Social Anxiety, and any other cognitive or mental health disability. Physical Disabilities have not changed, like those needing a mobility scooter, wheelchair, crutches or the sort. Other Physical Disabilities include IBS, Crohn’s Disease, and Diabetes. Also, Cancer is not a qualifier.
What Disney is suggesting as of right now for those who do NOT qualify. Rider Switch or Return to Queue, or Single Rider Line, or buy Genie+
Rider Switch
What is Rider switch is a program available to all Guests. With Rider Switch, Guests can wait with member(s) of their party who aren’t riding due to any of the reasons listed below. Once the first Guest returns the waiting Guest can board the attraction without having to wait in the regular line again!
Rider Switch is available for Guests who meet one of the following:
- Does not meet the boarding requirements
- Has a service animal that cannot board the attraction or does not want to use a provided kennel
- Meets boarding requirement and does not want to ride but cannot wait outside queue on their own
Rider Switch is available at most attractions throughout Walt Disney World Resort.
Attraction Queue Re-Entry
There may be times when a Guest must briefly step out of the standby line and then rejoin their party in the line. Every location has a defined process to support this option based on a person’s disability while the rest of the party remains in line.
How to Use Queue Re-entry
Speak to a Cast member at the location for directions on how to re-enter the queue.
- A Cast Member will provide details about how to exit the queue and how to navigate back to your party.
- While the Guest who must leave the line is briefly away, the rest of the party will remain in line.
- The Guest reunites with their party to ride the attraction.
Note: Guests must meet boarding requirements to ride.
Single Rider
The following attractions consistently offer a single-rider line:
- Test Track at EPCOT
- Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
- Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
- Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Disney Genie Service
Disney Genie service is a program available to all Guests.
Our complimentary Disney Genie service helps you enjoy more of the magic during your theme park visit with 2 easy-to-use features.
The My Day feature lets you see your booked theme park plans for the day in one place. Plus, get personalized recommendations customized to your preferences.
The Tip Board lets you view estimated wait times, order food, make dining reservations and request to join an available virtual queue.
What are your thoughts on the changes? Tell us about it in the comments!
Thank you again to Fantasy Land News at-
http://www.fantasylandnews.com
Changes Coming to DAS Passes at the Parks
Michele also contributes theme park news for Fox 35 Orlando 11pm news and on the radio on WDBO.