The Autism Society of Los Angeles has issued a media release regarding the changes:

Disneyland Guest Assistance Pass Change Takes Individuals with Autism to an Unhappy Place

Parents Call for Disney Policy to Accommodate
the Special Challenges of Individuals with Autism


The Autism Society of Los Angeles, representing thousands of individuals with autism and their families in Southern California, today expressed concern about the overhaul of the system which allows individuals with disabilities to avoid long waits for rides. While the organization acknowledges the abuse of the program by non-disabled individuals -- actions that the group strongly condemns – the revamped system will prevent many individuals with developmental disabilities from being able to visit the Disney Parks. The new policy goes into effect on October 9 at both the Disneyland and Walt Disney World resorts.

“The unintended consequence of Disney’s policy change is to punish individuals with developmental disabilities with legitimate special needs,” said Judy Mark, Government Relations Chair of the Autism Society of Los Angeles. “The change will turn ‘The Happiest Place on Earth’ into a nightmare for many families with children with autism.”

Autism is a developmental disability affecting one in 88 children. Many people with autism have behavioral challenges that make it hard for them to wait long periods of time. Different from those with physical disabilities, some individuals with autism will be unable to endure long waiting times, even if they are not required to stand in the actual line.

Tens of thousands of parents with autism have already signed petitions calling for Disney to provide an alternative to the proposed change for those children and adults with developmental and behavioral challenges.

“For many families with children with autism, Disneyland is one of the few places of real joy. This is as a result of Disney Parks’ wonderful accommodations for our families,” said Mark. “To take that happiness away would be tragic.”

The Autism Society of Los Angeles hopes that senior executives of the Disney Parks will ensure that any new policy will recognize the special needs of children and adults with autism and other behavioral challenges. ASLA stands ready to work respectfully with Disney to achieve that result.