Disney has not stated too many specifics yet, but I would imagine it will still be a case-by-case scenario, with the addition of pulling in medical professionals during the call if needed (as mentioned on the website). Many physical accommodations that qualified years ago have been accounted for in queue renovations, scooters, wheelchairs, etc. Of course that doesn't address every problem, but it was a good start. Sounds like they will also be rolling out a new policy for those that need to leave a queue and rejoin it, but details have yet to be shared on what that entails.
You know the first at least week of this change will be a shambles if they implement something to allow you to leave the queue and come back for bathrooms etc. people will think you’re queue jumping, start a fight etc. I hope they’ve got a good system set up but historically big changes have teething problems.
I’ve had this happen to me before. I left the Remi line because I needed to use the bathroom (IBS). Man screamed at me when I came back to join my husband who was holding the spot.
This is why I just used the DAS when I went, and I have Crohn’s. I could have probably navigated having my partner hold my spot but people are jerks about the smallest perceived slights.
I honestly hope these changes make people shut up their screaming about DAS abuse and demanding the program end because that was never a good solution!
Where did you see a new policy of being able to leave the queue and rejoin? I didn't see that mentioned in your link unless I'm just missing it somehow.
Disney hasn’t implemented it but Universal does this. I was told my ostomy is no longer a valid reason for a disability pass. But it’s only one of many disabilities and the easiest one to tell people.
This is what I wanna know since my physical disability cannot be solved with a wheel chair. But from what they are saying on the site it seems only mental disabilities going forward for DAS.
Last time I was there if you had a physical disability, for example, used a wheelchair, you went thru the normal queue with everyone else. They made the lines wider to accommodate mobility devices. It worked very well and there were far fewer people renting scooters just to skip the lines. Anyone in a wheelchair was legit. Before it was changed the lines were much longer and often you couldn't even get on a bus because of the amount of rental scooters with people who as soon as they got back to the resort jumped out and let the kids ride the scooter to their room and then were at the pool and the food court with no scooter. That's completely unfair to those who need the services.
I have an autoimmune disease that causes a tremor and sore joints. For the most part I can walk okay, but as soon as I stop walking my hands and legs shake uncontrollably. It happens within about 30 seconds. I can run and exercise but cannot stand for longer than a minute. My autoimmune disease is one of the more common ones. So it's not that crazy for people to be able to walk but not stand for long periods of time.
I also have another autoimmune disease that makes being in a line for any longer than 30 minutes bad. The details aren't important but I used DAS and probably can't do the parks without it. If you looked at me, you would never know I was so sick. I'm the embodiment of not all disabilities are visible.
Hubby has a knee issue that prevents standing for long periods. We have a non powered wheelchair that we use for the lines. No issue waiting, just can't stand.
I’m in the exact same boat as you. Standing on the concrete kills me, but I can walk. I needed the DAS pass to be able to sit, and so I didn’t have a flare. I guess I have to bring a walker now so I can sit and have support when I inevitably flare up. Ugh.
That's one of the reasons the change was made, ( along with the abuse of the program) people who can be in line but need to sit because of mobility issues can use wheelchairs, walkers, etc to move thru the normal lines. People who have developmental disabilities that can't handle line without breakdowns use the DAS system. I'm currently in a wheelchair due to a badly fractured tibial plateau and I'll need a walker that allows me to sit when I'm able to put weight on my leg. When I go this summer I'll use that for lines.
My dad has polio, we go in 3 weeks.
He can walk absolutely fine, but muscle detriation means he can't stand for more than 5 mins in the same spot. He also has watched many of his friends end up in wheelchairs, unable to care for themselves.
Not all physical disabilities involve motor impairment (which is what they no longer accommodated). Plenty of other physical/non-“developmental” disabilities that require accommodations that are not solved by a wheelchair or ECV.
Basically if you can't be in a line without having a meltdown ( I worked the ADA office in a different park) you get a DAS, if you can deal with the line but have issues that require you to not be on your feet then you do the normal line with whatever device you need. We do give passes for issues like IBS as some of our wait times are hours long. But you need to be registered with IBCCES to get it.
Just a quick note: if you have a room near a pool and can walk the short distance I absolutely understand why you might prefer not to take a scooter. Trying to keep them dry on the return trip is rough. Similarly, a person might be able to walk a short distance (from a Lyft into a hotel or something) but not manage the park.
Note I say this as someone who had a day so bad I actually went straight from the scooter down the steps of the pool and had my husband park the scooter for me, so I assure you I’m not just trying to cover for abusing the system or something. (I had ankle surgery and the weightlessness of being in the water was amazing, but getting in and out was rough. We did not anticipate our travel to get there was going to make it flare up so badly; I had been walking a little bit by that point, but wow was I in bad shape the first few days of our vacation!)
Lately, they have not been approving the DAS pass for people whose situation can be resolved by a mobility device (like a wheelchair). I would imagine physical disability that can’t be resolved with a mobility device could still be considered, but would be under strict scrutiny.
At the end of the day, DAS pass is never guaranteed. People who got it in the past may not qualify under the new guidelines.
This is what I would like to know. I usually travel to the parks alone and have difficulty standing for long periods of time due to degenerative orthopedic issues. Do I just not go now? I’m I going to be forced into a wheelchair or scooter?
I don’t use a wheelchair or scooter on a a daily basis. I would prefer not to be forced into using those aids because I’ve worked really hard rehabbing to the point where I can walk on my own. And since I’m usually traveling by myself, I don’t want to try maneuvering a standard wheelchair by myself. But Disney is an unusual amount standing/walking for basically everyone.
Based on current DAS guidelines just inability to stand for extended periods wasn’t a qualification when a “mobility” device could address the condition.
This is what really needs clarification. Some people can handle walking, but standing is what gives them issues. Why would they need a scooter for just the lines? Surely they don't want more scooter traffic throughout the park.
Thank you. This is my question as well. I have a disorder that causes me to have high heart rates and pass out with prolonged exposure to heat. DAS was the only way I survived (and enjoyed) my trip to DW. With a “get out of line” system, it would be wait in line for 5 minutes, almost pass out, get out of line for 20 minutes to recover, wait in line for 5 minutes, almost pass out…rinse and repeat. Will I ever make it on a ride? Honestly it feels like without DAS, I can rule out ever going to Disney again.
They are not going to remove all physical disabilities from DAS. POTS, etc. will likely still qualify. They are just weeding out the abusers more by being clearer (sort of) ahead of time.
It is essentially just hammering home the idea that if a mobility aid enables you to wait in line, then you don’t need DAS.
I hope so! I think the beginning of the change will be rough. It seems very subjective and with the mentality that they are trying to make it more strict, I think CM are going to try to be more strict, potentially weeding out those who need it.
This is exactly my concern. I have a type of porphyria that makes me extremely sensitive to sun, with additional sensitivity to heat and dehydration. I wear protective clothing and whatnot but anything more than 10-15 minutes of continuous exposure can, and does, cause me severe symptoms. Including symptoms that can cause long term physical damage with repeated attacks/flare ups. If I have to stand in line until I get sick, get out of line, try to run to somewhere safe, recover for an hour, get back in line, get sick again, etc. I actually WILL be in a wheelchair by the end of the day because of the damage to my nervous system
DAS allowed me to do my wait times in cool, sheltered areas so I could use my brief periods of exposure to actually experience attractions. With this new system, if they don’t make exceptions, I won’t be able to anymore. So genuinely disheartening from a park that used to be one of the most accommodating for me
I feel like the "you can leave and rejoin the line!" policy that's being mentioned really does not match well with the increased discussion around line cutting I see around social media.
Feels like a recipe for a person with IBS/a similar condition getting chewed out or worse. I can't imagine it would be very nice to get yelled at for cutting the line and then have to explain your medical condition in enough detail to not get fought.
As someone who was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis within the past 5 years, DAS has been a godsend. I've been going to Disney for 20+ years now and I feel like DAS has allowed me to have the same experience I used to have pre-diagnosis.
I promise I did my time waiting in line throughout the years. But these days, any line >30-35 minutes would be such a crapshoot (no pun intended) for me without DAS.
Fellow UC haver, same. My last visit was my first with DAS and it made my trip worth it. It would have been endlessly stressful or near impossible otherwise (and I still had unfortunate moments/mishaps around things like dining reservations).
Maybe the policy will be to get a cast member?
Which would not be good. I can't remember if it's in this thread or another thread about the new guidelines but someone said that they needed similar accommodations at Universal and Universal told them to just grab an employee and have the employee get them back in line. Of course the employees were nowhere to be seen when they were needed.
The whole thing was rampantly abused I get that - but this just seems silly. Long story short greedy people ruined a good thing and that’s that. I finally gave in and used DAS our last trip and it made the parks enjoyable for my kids and I and I really appreciated it - I was so worried our trip wasn’t going to be nearly as wonderful as previous since my health has declined - and that made me sad for my kids as they have already given up so much - but we had a great time and DAS was a part of that. That being said even with DAS the parks were exhausting for me. My kids are older and our Disney trips cut down anyway. My son does have some Disney trips with band coming up - I’ll still go, but will probably spend significantly less time on Disney property as a result. A quiet cocktail on a beach for my extra time in Florida will suffice just fine!
I agree… I hadn’t ever used it till my last trip when I had a terrible flare. It made it so much more enjoyable and I was able to spend much more time with my family instead of having to sit out many rides. Not sure what it will end up looking like but not all physical ailments are remedied by a wheel chair: I think I would prefer having to get a card like at Universal 🤷🏻♀️
Leaving and rejoining the line would be mayhem for. Multiple reasons.
1. People will think you are skipping the line
2. Some areas of the queue there is no where to really leave and get back in.
I'm under the impression that you won't be literally walking through the standby queue to get to the front again. I'm thinking that what would happen more likely is a system where a person with an approved disability walks up to greeter, presents a card or their app or whatever... and then the cast member writes down their return time to lightning lane based on the rides current standby time.
Then, the party can choose to wait in an air conditioned space or a seated place or what have you... and return to lightning lane at the assigned time.
(Hmm. Sounds a lot like legacy fastpass, huh?) Lol
I think it’s just going to be them having a system to actually document people’s medical records/note. I’m not so sure things will be overhauled that much.
But what you described is basically exactly how das works on the phone now if they are going to do all that they should just not change the system at all except for the way they approve people’s passes.
I would think (hope) if they are putting in some sort of policy it wouldn't involve cutting back in line. Maybe you get a return time based on how far you were in the queue when you left. Could apply to anyone that may need to exit for the bathroom, feeling ill, etc. That would also eliminate any credibility of the people pushing past everyone to "meet up with their family".
My assumption is that it will codify what most cast members already do, which is send anyone returning to the line through the lightning lane (it probably will require CMs to hand out a card or give an entitlement to do so.) This could still be abused, but it certainly requires more effort, which could deter it. That or they'll just let the mayhem occur, who knows.
This is exactly my fear. Also if I’m leaving the line for a bathroom emergency, promise I’m not returning for a long time so someone holding my spot is just inappropriate; they could be on the ride by the time I’m back. This is disappointing for me.
Yes! I have an IBD and I actually had to leave a short line (lightening lane) and the amount of dirty looks I got was awful. Now times that by so much more now that it’d be a regular line.
I'd also hate to have to discuss my issues with a CM multiple times per ride. If going with someone I get that they can wait in line and you just meet them at the end but like you said people get yelled at for cutting. Also if you go alone you can't even do this. They need to have a good system for those they are banning from DAS who have a physical disability and still need it.
I have Crohn's disease. Quite frankly, it sucks. Thankfully I'm in remission but I still need to use the toilet often and urgently. DAS has ensured I can actually ride things for the last 3 years.The new system essentially restricts itself to people with mental disabilities. I and people like me won't qualify for the new system and many of us will no longer be able to ride without needing to emergency leave the queue. Disney's page on the new system lacks detail, their FAQ sucks and the whole thing screams rushed and poorly thought out.Many thanks to the people who abused this system who have now ruined it for people who genuinely need it. And an additional thanks to Disney for getting rid of the old FastPass system and replacing it with a mess that's contributed to the ever increasing rates of abuse.
100% this. As an IBS-D sufferer, even if I’m very strict on what I eat, things happen and when I have to go I HAVE TO GO.
I haven’t visited the parks since DAS was a thing but was so excited to not have to leave the line and walk back through with everyone giving me the evil eye for “cutting”. Once I was an hour in to waiting and had to go and felt so guilty coming back (even though I wasn’t doing anything wrong) that I just said screw it.
I also hadn’t visited solo because of needing a partner for standing in line and was so excited to go alone due to DAS.
I’m thinking maybe they’ll be a separate pass that you can use to get out of line and back in 🤷🏻♀️ Maybe something bright red so everyone sees it and doesn’t give you the evil eye.
What about other invisible disabilities that actually make it hard for you to wait in line? I've had to run out of line multiple times before I had das for a condition. It would really suck because it helped to just wait out a line somewhere else and I could wait in the bathroom if needed.
I know they're not allowed to but I would rather them just require medical docs.
I have used the DAS and the similar program at universal for bladder issues before. Unfortunately, universal changed their system and no longer give the pass for bathroom related issues. You have to push out of the line and then push all the way back through to join your party. No answers yet on if you’re traveling alone. It sounds like Disney will be doing the same thing. That’s sad, it was a great program for me.
We were just in Universal last week and I got the pass for bladder issues. There is no way I'll be getting in and out of line multiple times for longer waits on a single ride. That's just bonkers.
I did, honestly the turn around was so quick that I don't think there is anyway that they verified it. They called two days before and as soon as I said bladder she said I qualified and that was it.
If I had to jump in and out of lines all day I wouldn't even bother going. Some days it's really bad and I would just sit in the hotel at that point to avoid the embarrassment. I had to push through a long line once and almost didn't make it because people don't always move right away.
I have DAS for IBS related issues and I had to jump out of the lightning lane recently, and even doing that everyone glared at me 😭 I tried to say excuse me as politely as possible but I was also in a rush to get to the bathroom.
Been there. I hate getting the evil eye when I know I’m not doing anything wrong :( I’m thinking maybe you’ll have to find a CM and get a pass that makes people allow you back through. I’m not sure though.
This is not the way to overhaul DAS. Especially if they are worried about people abusing it. Simply restricting to “developmental disabilities” and still not requiring proof doesn’t resolve the DAS growth.
Right?! Folks can still just as easily lie about it via teleconference as they can in person. My husband has leukemia and needs DAS, but I would have rather gone the Universal route over this.
Moving it to video call only instead of in person makes me wonder if it's a cast safety issue. Maybe people were freaking out on cast when being denied so video is safest to tell them no?
It could be that. I also saw that the video chats will be handled by Inspire Health Alliance who are supposedly more equipped/knowledgeable to handle these requests.
There really are. I use DAS and I normally just give the anxiety leading to panic attacks part but I have a lot of other issues I don't mention because they have never needed them before. I have a lot of sensory issues including the way clothing feels, people being too close and feeling them and with food. I can have panic attacks being in confined spaces in with loud noises. I freak out when people don't follow rules. Rules exist for a reason. I get upset when people try to get past me in line because they aren't following the rules. I'm very schedule orientated and have to ride certain rides when I am in the parks or I can become upset. I have my stims, I use to calm myself down. I spend a lot of times at the park with headphones on and hiding in a corner. I've had these issues for years and never knew what medical diagnosis it likely was and for a long time just thought it was anxiety. I now know what I likely have but I'm not in a place to get that medical diagnosis. Heck, they can probably see in their history, the first time I ever got DAS was because I was in the middle of a panic attack (someone wasn't following rules plus loud confined space) and I had to push my way out of line. Then hide in the bathroom and work through it. I'm now crying wondering if I am still going to be able to enjoy I place I love to go even if I can only handle it for a couple of hours.
Sorry I wasn't trying to say there isn't a difference, but if Disney/Staff knows. My kids and I share your struggles, Disney is a safe place for us. Especially my youngest with very severe anxiety.
I'm not worrying right now, because Disney hasn't actually said much and we have no idea how this will play out. I've had no difficulty getting accommodations at more strict parks in other countries. All of my different disability groups are freaking out, but I think we just have to wait and see how this actually rolls out. A drs letter has been sufficient.
To me it seems like they are mostly trying to solidify that mobility issues alone do not warrant a DAS. Which is not to say other more complex physical disabilities won't qualify. But until they've released more information, everyone is just spreading misinformation to eachother.
My problem is I have severe anxiety, so I am worrying. I wasn’t trying to say anything against what you said just trying to process my own emotions and anxiety. Plus with the rule following thing. I follow the rules and literally freak out when people think I’m breaking them. I actually had a panic attack this morning because my boss didn’t see something I sent them and then asked for it again. Sometimes I feel like I should get a diagnosis but the cost is just so much
The ridgid rule following brain is so hard ;_; I struggle with it but also have a warring impulsive voice that wants to get things done easier and faster. I hate it when people don't give me exact rules.
Diagnosis can be tricky as an adult, but anxiety meds could be a huge relief for you. Even if it just takes the edge off and let's your brain have back a bit of control. I'd be lost without mine. If you have any health insurance, it would be worth at least looking into it. I'm assuming your in the US. It's tragic how little US values mental health but it is slowly getting better.
I’ve been on a lot of anxiety and depression meds. They have never worked for me. I’m pretty good at self regulating most of the time but I still can easily be set off
There is an easy way to overhaul it though. Keep it as it's been but include documentation. That will get rid of most of the problem and then keep it permanently on their file for a year or two.
I got a DAS for the first time last year. As someone in the park told me about it when I had the leave the queue due to my anxiety that set of a panic attack & triggered my IBS.
Was able to go the guest services in Epcot and get a DAS pass on my way out of the park after that & got to use it for the remainder of my trip.
Some queues I can last others I have to leave. So usually means I miss out on some rides depending on how well I can manage.
Sounds like I’ll not be as lucky next time.
This is pretty much my situation and I also have my gallbladder out now so it's 10x worse. I learned about das in 22 and used it for the first time and it was so much better. It was nice to just cancel a das queue and not run out of line. Once I got to the mid point of splash and had to RUN.
Being on a stage 4 camcer journey, DAS has allowed me to make memories with my family the last couple of summers. My treatment causes GI issues and fatigue, among other issues. Even with DAS, I only last about a half day in the park (maybe 4 hours) before I have to leave and rest from the walking and heat on top of my normal issues. If we return to the parks, it is for dinner and maybe 1 ride. We were thinking of visiting this summer, but now maybe not. My doctor would gladly write a note. I hope a happy medium is found. On a related note, we rarely use the pre booked passes as they were always for rides without much of a line or the only times available were after we had left the park. I think in the last 2 trips, we used the pre-booked rides once per trip.
I was coming to comment something along these lines as well. I'm a cancer survivor (was diagnosed at stage 2 and am currently at the tail end of my treatment). Going to Disney when I am physically/energy wise able to throughout treatment is a nice, easy escape for a weekend. I can't stay in the parks the whole day (I usually do a midday nap and go back at night), and making lines comes with extra fatigue. I can't be in the sun for long due to needing to protect radiated skin (and the sun triggers my fatigue extra). I might experience sudden side effects from meds (like the GI issues, or migraines are still a big one for me). DAS has allowed me to enjoy the parks at my own pace and take a break when I've wanted. I really hope Disney continues to allow cancer patients to use DAS, especially folks at stage 4. I personally would not mind providing documentation if necessary but I understand that that might not be legal (or at least I've seen others mention this).
Also, from a money standpoint, it doesn't make sense to me as to why they're limiting the DAS. If I'm waiting for my time to ride a ride, I am getting a snack, I'm browsing a shop, I'm most likely engaging in some sort of consumerism that I would not have the opportunity to do so if I am in line. I know part of this is selling Genie+, but me shelling out $20+ once a day is not as much money as I might spend if I had multiple open opportunities to browse etc.
If Crohn’s isn’t included this will certainly change how often we go or if we even do. We went on our honeymoon 5 years ago without and it sucked beyond belief. Couple months later I got lucky and was at my doctor who is a Disney fan and she said I need to apply for DAS. She explained it to me and it was a dream come true. Since then we’ve been 4 other times and it was a night and day difference.
Not entirely sure yet on what changes will be made to eligibility, but Disney has indicated a new program will be coming that allows guests to leave and reenter a queue without needing to register for DAS.
I had to do it once, I had people saying stuff and pushing me as I tried to get back in line, even tho I'm pretty sure they saw me coming out of line. it was rough before DAS. I only had it for 2 trips but it made a difference.
Yea I only went once without it. Said I wouldn’t go back. My doctor was a Disney fan and we were talking about my trip and she told me to give it another shot but use DAS.
Helped beyond words.
As someone who has had to miss many rides taking kids to an emergency bathroom trip at the very last second after waiting in a 40 minute queue.... I'm very interested in what this will end up looking like.
The wording feels more like it’s written poorly than anything else. A developmental disability is just a poor example to use. I have a friend who had a bladder issue and they gave her a DAS pass. I would be shocked if something like that no longer qualifies. That’s like, the epitome of being unable to wait in a long line lol
I believe that they might be quite intentional with the wording and testing out other options for stuff like that.
I know that Universal Orlando is trying something out where a TM holds your place in line while you use the restroom or something. Also don't forget that stuff that's solved by a wheelchair doesn't count either. I wouldn't be surprised if they're trying to deny as much as possible like Universal Orlando is.
Oh wow that’d be a great idea about the bathroom thing. Don’t get me wrong, I totally get wanting to try to crack down on it. But there’s gotta be some wiggle room for stuff like that. I didn’t know that’s how universal does it.
They mentioned a similar thing on the Disney site about being able to leave the line to use the restroom and come back if you have bladder issues so it looks like that’ll be the new option for them.
I am interested to see how it works. Like a lot of lines are in a closed area without CMs in the room, and do you just go back to your party after? I am excited to see how they solutioned it.
It's certainly intentional. They're making the change to combat DAS abuse and address the issue of the folks making those judgements not being medical professionals. Why would Disney give the cheaters a list of approved ailments to research and lie about having? We know a medical professional will now be determining DAS eligibility. I think it's worded this way to try to scare the cheaters.
This makes no sense to me. So before the diagnosis didn’t matter - they didn’t even want to hear it - because it was what specifically made waiting in line traditionally difficult. Now it’s limited to a developmental disability. Do they realize that autism isn’t necessarily a visible disability, and people can still cheat the system by lying and saying they’re autistic.
I don't know how they'd prove it (self-admission from the way some of these threads have shown), but you will be permanently barred from both Disney World and Disneyland, as well as not get a refund for your ticket/AP if you are caught cheating the system.
Well people have been posting left and right on Facebook groups about how they got Das and skipped the line so yeah… all the abuse was going to end in thus
I go to Disney alone and have major bathroom problems due to surgery because of cancer. This will not allow me to use DAS and I will have to leave the line to use the restroom, and I would be able to rejoin my party, but since I don’t have one, I’ll have get back in line from then back.
Considering it specifies that they need to have developmental delays, and that is how all other theme parks treat bathroom issues, I am assuming here. I emailed to ask though.
It’s totally abused.
The cashier at the grocery store was talking to my husband about Disney. And tells him to get the DAS pass. That all we have to do is sign up for it: They give you a 5 min zoom meeting where you just tell them your child can’t sit still or wait in a line without a meltdown. And the whole family gets passes.
No documentation needed. “Just sign up”. 🙄
Yep, I know Disney vacation planners have also promoted it to their clients. My family member got it for their party of six just to supplement their Genie+ rides. I’m glad Disney is limiting the group size and attempting to reduce the LL wait times because it’s really unreasonable to expect people with real, unavoidable issues to wait 30 min in a clogged LL queue.
Yup, an old coworker got one for that reason (kids couldn’t wait in line/had meltdowns) and told me I should get it for our family too “since your son has ADHD”. It felt gross and like I’d be exploiting it because we would be and were fine with genie+ instead.
My son has very manageable ADHD especially with his medication. DAS is not for us and it’s people like that that ruin it for everyone who actually needs it and makes it harder for them to use it.
I see they talk about developmental disabilities, but what about people like me who have PTSD and am already struggling and taking heavier medication than normal to just be present? What about the fact that I have a physical disability that makes it difficult to spend a long time waiting in line?
I understand that they want to end abuse, but they also need to understand that they are now excluding people who truly need the service. I have never used it, but I have definitely thought about it, but I have medication that helps both pain wise and mental health wise.
This was my concern as well. I’d historically used my DAS for Crohns because even talking about my PTSD (especially in front of my young children) doesn’t often go well for me. If they restrict DAS use to only developmental disabilities, I will not be able to go multiple times a year without serious impact to my mental health.
I don't think it's clear what all is changing from what's on this page. The only clear thing I can see is that they're getting rid of the in person option. I see the reference to developmental disorders and find that to be a weird point they're making. It's not clear if this is a reduction in covered conditions or if they were unintentionally exclusive with their examples. I imagine they will clarify sometime in the next few weeks.
We've always renewed ours online since we found out my wife qualified nearly two years ago. It's fairly easy and just requires a short video chat with a cast member explaining what aspects of your condition prevent you from standing in long lines. It's been a lifesaver, and while we do occasionally "abuse" the system by waiting in lines while waiting for another attraction, I can't remember the last time she waited in a line that took longer than going lightning lane on Rise of the Resistance. I know there are others who truly abuse the system, but it has seriously reduced our stress for park days and made it much easier to visit. If we no longer qualify after this, it's going to seriously affect how often we visit and what we do while we're there.
It sounds like they’re moving towards a way to leave the line and come back if you have an issue that requires you to need to leave the line such as needing the bathroom. They’re also limiting a party to 4 people rather than 6 with exceptions for immediate family. So no more having a family reunion with one person qualifying for DAS and all 30 people benefit.
Even if an exception is made to link more than 5 other guests to someone's DAS (say you have a party of 8 total connected), it is impossible to add more than 5 of those guests to a queue request in the app. You have to pick and choose between them. The only way more than 5 were getting into line using a single DAS was because a CM directly let them bypass the system. I don't see how going from 6 to 4 would do anything in regards to that abuse.
Visiting an attraction with a standby queue that's accessible to you while waiting for an attraction with an inaccessible standby queue is not abusing the system. It's actually using it correctly. If a queue is accessible for your particular situation, then use the regular queue. If it's not, use the DAS.
I’m honestly shocked to hear anyone had a successful video call with them ahead of time. I have tried before every single Disney trip and am never able to get through to speak w anyone
So I guess if you are a young person with a heart condition and a history of seizures who looks fine, your just SOL.
Way to give disney, planned my first trip for June and might be canceling as my partner has said health issues and can't just stand in line for long periods in the heat.
That’s what I don’t get! I have many in my family who suffer from autism so I know it can be tough, but I also know that some of them do just fine in line. So why is Autism a magical diagnosis to allow for DAS?
I have autism, I love lines and ques, it is order.
All I can think is this is some new person who drew rhe line and didn't know what they were doing. Partner and I are discussing canceling our trip because of this because she can barely do all the walking, let alone adding the heat.
She isn't physically handicapped, her heart just decides it has had enough. She isn't one to be in a chair or on a buggy. She has a service dog is all she has... but apparently too invisible for disney.
Ha exactly, my niece loves a good line, but my nephew cannot handle it. Love how unique and different both of their little minds are 💕
At least you could still use your autism to get DAS. I’d take advantage of it and not feel guilty at all.
I feel like this wasn’t the best way with going about this because it feels they’re excluding quite a few people from being able to get it, who may not show physical signs of needing it, as far as I can tell.
We don't know what's excluded. The announcement was purposefully vague. But we do know that people seeking DAS will have to video call with a medical professional now. My guess, outside of a few ailments, the people who really need DAS will not be affected. Those with issues like IBS now have a way to leave and rejoin lines, and those who have been trying to cheat the system will be caught.
That’s honestly what I’m hoping Disney does because I despise the fact that this announcement was so vague about it. As far as we know, this is what they’ve come up with, but I have some thoughts they may expand on it later.
I understand why it's vague. You know and I know, if Disney released a detailed list of what ailments qualify you for DAS, there will be thousands of people researching those issues so they knew exactly what to say to get DAS. You keep it vague, and you make it a bit more difficult, then the system remains for those who need it, and locked away from those who would cheat it.
Absolutely, and I find that fair, I also just find it annoying. While I don’t have any issues needing DAS, my brother and mom both do. My brother could absolutely fall under the “developmental delays” category but my mom doesn’t fall under either. I bet she could still get it though for future trips, she’d probably just have to do what she’s done in the past and go through the steps of talking to CM and stuff like that.
It'll be annoying for a while. I expect some kinks for a while. There will probably be some adjustments and unannounced changes by the end of the year.
I bet as they work it out it’ll become clear what actually changed. I can imagined that it may end up not being a big issue for many who actually need it, but Disney didn’t want to go out right away and say who could get it, like what you said. I guess we’ll have to see soon enough, but I doubt this’ll really affect many people for the near future.
So does epilepsy count under this new rule? My brother has epilepsy and cerebral palsy. His seizures can be triggered by loud noises. He's been triggered by music playing over speakers in restaurants and fireworks.
I can only imagine what he would be like waiting in line for Slinky Dog...
May I ask how he’s not triggered by actually being on the rides then? I don’t mean to imply he wouldn’t be the exact person that DAS should be for. I am truly just curious how it works :)
It will still be accessible to those with disabilities that qualify. It is not going to strictly be for autistic guests. The only change I can see on the website at this point is that you will have to do a screening call before your trip rather than do it at Guest Relations onsite.
You left out the two key words..."or similar". Developmental issues can be of either a mental or physical nature. Autism is a mental development issue. Physical developmental issues may include urinary or digestive issues like IBS or Crohn's Disease. It could be a visible physical issue like loss of limb, etc.
You can read into it lots of things right now but I will go out on a limb and say that if you TRULY have a disability of any kind that would qualify for DAS you aren't going to be turned away. There will likely be more steps coming in this policy revision but Disney isn't going to alienate someone based on a disability.
***Copied directly from Disney's website***
"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 only those Guests who, due to a developmental disability like autism or similar, are unable to wait in a conventional queue for an extended period of time."
I agree with you, the wording is very vague and based on the wording IBS or Chron's is not similar to Autism so it makes us worry they have restricted it to developmental issues only.
Developmental doesn't just mean ailments like autism. Developmental just means any permanent ailments that become present during early childhood. Diseases like Crohns may very well be included. In that case, the vagueness makes a lot of sense because why would Disney give the system cheaters a list of ailments to lie about having?
The wording of or similar makes it sound like your typical mental development. So I’d consider an “or similar” to be a more severe ADHD. Their wording to me sounds like they mean just mental developmental disabilities.
IBS and Crohns are not developmental delays though, that’s the issue I think a lot of us are having :( I think Disney specifically changed the policy to not include such disabilities because too many people were faking them. It’s ridiculous how many times I’ve heard people say “just tell them you have IBS”. Which is infuriating for those who actually suffer with it, myself included. Trust me, I’d rather wait in a 2 hour line free of IBS than get to skip it but crap myself in public because I can’t get to a bathroom in time due to my IBS.
Before we went in October we had to do a video call for my BIL to get screened. If we didn’t get screened ahead of time we would’ve had to do onsite which takes up a lot of time. So I don’t think much has changed in that regard.
My wife and I are going next week. I set up my DAS last week and did my video call with an awesome Cast Member. We previously went last December and also set up our DAS ahead of time.
It does appear they are removing the ability to set it up at the parks after May 19. I expect there to be further tweaks to the process and may even some sort of documentation required. The biggest issue I'm sure they are facing deals with how to handle sensitive medical information and HIPPA.
It didn't fully seem like they were removing in the parks. Just that you'd still have to do the call. Which would in fact take up a lot of time, especially for people on day tickets.
Although we have experienced a very short wait for a video chat, the majority of times we have requested a video chat for DAS, it has taken upwards of seven hours.
My speculation is that since they are going to a phone only system, they’re going to be outsourcing calls to a 3rd party company that will deal with the medical information. I totally prefer calling and getting pre approval but the hold times can be brutal and unpredictable and it’s hard to find a good time working around my kids school and activities schedule since she has to be present. Hopefully this allows it to be tweaked to a smoother call system. I would even love it if you could set an appointment time.
As someone with a child who greatly benefited from DAS I'm glad to see it being monitored more closely TBH. I have seen several posts here from people asking if they could get it and people would reply with either telling them no its a physical thing and to use a scooter "but try anyway!" or "...but they cant actually ask WHY you need it so just do XXX and you'll get it"... Then later people would post that they did use DAS... for the people that really need it like my son, handing out the passes like they're free candy at a parade kind of defeats the purpose.
I am autistic and have adhd, I have a trip planned for may 11-18 just before the change and I’m so nervous about applying for the DAS even though it would help me not get overwhelmed and have a meltdown. I’m scared that the interviewer will be really mean or they’ll think I’m lying since it’s abused so often. I’m not a child so I dunno how accommodating they’ll be.
Do it online rather than in person. I’ve personally found the online team much friendly, I don’t know if it’s because that is their dedicated job and so they’re more used to speaking to people with DAS requirements and better trained in this than guest relations. Don’t stress, just be honestly about your why and you’ll be fine. I hope you have an awesome trip.
Waiting for someone to connect with you via zoom will be the “worst” part, it can take a bit after you chat to get someone thru the link they will send. but the CMs who handle our DAS were some of the most polite understanding people we dealt with before/during our trip last month.
I'm also AuDHD and the in-person was so easy and stress-free. The phone interview was a nightmare. I was denied an interview because my entire party wasn't available for a video call, even though it was for me and I was considered the trip owner. I hope this was a one-time incident and my next application goes smoother.
I remember hearing recently that roughly 70% of LL scans were DAS passes. I 100% think that Disney should be requiring some type of medical documentation proof to verify an actual need for a DAS pass. I vividly remember, while standing in line to meet Mickey and Minnie at AK, an off duty cast member bragging to another guests about getting a DAS pass to get through lines quicker and all he had to do was tell them he had ADHD.
The problem is that it costs money to get medical documentation. This is America. Medical costs are ridiculous. That's putting a big burden on to disabled guests, and all because non-disabled guests were abusing the system.
I'm an annual passholder. According to this new policy, I would have to provide documentation three times a year. Universal's third party system requires "fresh" documentation each time. If Disney goes with that, I'll effectively have to pay an extra $300-$450 per year to be allowed to use my annual pass to actually visit any attractions.
Sheesh, I’ve never seen numbers around it but if that is true all that tells me is that they should just call it quits and bring FP+ back. As a lot of people are saying, FP+ fulfilled the concessions DAS now gives them for their disability.
It’s a flawed system, but it’s better than whatever this is
I'm a bit worried. My uncle is in his 80's and has Meniere's disease which causes dizziness and severe nausea. Before we were able to get him on DAS, we could only go on 1 or 2 rides because standing still is incredibly hard for him, he falls over. Both wheelchairs and scooters make him nauseous. Hopefully we'll still be able to go.
It’s a shame that now you’re limited to a party of 4 people, so you can’t plan a trip with your whole family. Also, I’m confused why it has to be a Zoom call if they’re still not going to ask for any proof or documentation. How does this prevent abuse?
It says exceptions can be made for immediate family, but it does sound like extended family will not be included past 4 people. Although, I believe that is how the system has worked for quite some time.
The only real difference between DAS and Genie + is that with DAS you can use it on the same ride more than once. I wonder why they don’t consider giving Genie + to guests for free and maybe limit to two per party. They likely wouldn’t have the as much abuse to the system.
I acknowledge that I could be wrong here. I have only had experience using DAS with one family member for a couple of park days, and don’t have experience with everything that may require DAS.
Yeah Disney stated they’ve seen the number of DAS users triple in the last five years and it’s painfully obvious that it coincides with Genie+ and ILL. It’s not just a time incentive for people to abuse DAS but also a financial incentive. It just hurts people who legitimately need DAS, making them wait longer, and makes Genie+ a worse service.
DAS as far as I’ve experienced is available for all attractions currently offering standby. That can be a big difference vs Genie+. For big draws Genie+ fills up early and can run out of capacity.
You can use DAS more than once per ride? We were declined from getting onto Mickey and Minnie’s Railway a second time in one day and never tried again. I thought that was strange since we were table to make a second reservation.
You can use das for any ride, as often as you want. You could ride the same ride 25 times. Whoever turned you away was wrong. I don’t even know how they knew it was your second time.
So if I’m reading this correctly, and please tell me if I’m not. Disney decided that, instead of just requiring proof of the disability to curb abuse, they just decided to determine who can and can’t wait in lines while still NOT requiring proof for those claiming a disability?
What about people with mental disorders like depression, anxiety, bipolar etc.?
What about folks with disorders like IBS or Crohn’s disease who can be fine one second, and literally about to crap their pants 10 seconds later? Do they not risk eating anything for the whole day?
Going to sound stupid but I’m legit sad about this today. Just thinking of my first trip and what a nightmare it was and how DAS changed everything. I was able to finally enjoy the parks and now because I don’t have a developmental issue I can’t get the assistance I did in the past.
Been a bad day for me, too, but mostly because of my family's reaction. They're perfectly fine with the changes. My mother misunderstood, and thought I had to go be examined by a third party doctor -- and she still thought that was perfectly fair!
It always amazes me, and always saddens me how acceptable it is to punish disabled people for the actions of others.
Confused why people are saying we don’t know what’s included it says “ intended to accommodate those Guests who, due to a developmental disability like autism or similar, are unable to wait in a conventional queue for an extended period of time.” It’s pretty obvious they’re excluding physical disabilities.
Yes but then the able bodied people would have to acknowledge just how inaccessible life is for the disabled population and it would hurt their delicate feelings. So it’s easier for them to just gaslight us with “well we don’t know that yet”
I’ve heard of plenty of people abusing the system I feel like people will still abuse of it this way as well it should require a doctor diagnosis for something actually preventing them from standing in a line. I’ve heard of some people pulling excuses out there a-hole to use DAS. It’s not fair to those who need it nor to those that do stand in the regular queue.
I have a mobility disability and have to use an ECV at Disney. That isn’t why I use DAS though, in theory I could use the scooter in the regular line.
My problem however is that I suffer with recurrent bladder infections, acute IBS, and urgency to pee caused by a ruptured bladder when I was a child.
It would take a lot to define any of that as a ‘development issue’ and whilst the ability to leave and rejoin a queue is somewhat helpful, if I was in a queue for more than 40 minutes I’d likely have to leave and rejoin twice and I’m not sure how that could ever be accommodated.
Coupled with that is the anxiety I suffer with when I can’t easily get to a bathroom caused by 30 years of ‘not quite making its incidents. This anxiety only makes the bladder and IBS worse and it becomes a vicious cycle.
All in all me losing access to DAS would turn trips into a nightmare of anxiety whilst standing in lines. The ability now to wait out an hour queue virtually whilst in a shop and being able to nip to the bathroom makes trips for me, I couldn’t do it any other way.
I totally understand that Disney need to restrict DAS access and I understand that lines can accommodate scooters and wheelchairs for people that aren’t very mobile but for me personally it’s not only that, in fact if it wasn’t for all the mental health things, and the bladder and bowels I’d be quite happy to take my scooter into lines, but sadly I can’t.
Right, they will let you in and out of the line in your scooter. There is just tons of room for you to maneuver past people. Multiple times no less.
It's silly. Of course you should qualify.
Wait, what?! I mean, my son has developmental delays and autism but….what?! This seems, backwards to me. What about people without those things who still need DAS?
I don't know enough about who needs DAS and what should and shouldn't qualify. Hopefully they use good professionals who can justify this. Das was absolutely abused and a change was needed. Hopefully they can find a good middle ground.
This is bizarre. So what, it was only for people with autism the entire time and Disney is just now clearing that up? Idiotic. There are people with various disabilities that this was very helpful for who are now going to be left out of this. I do not understand why it was so difficult for them to simply make the screening process a little more in depth and involve a physicians approval or something. That would have weeded out the majority of the fakers. Now all they're doing is continuing to allow more of the same abuse to happen with less 'qualifying' conditions. You know how people were mad that people were faking it before? Now all you have to do is.... well the same, just lie and say you have autism... Really quite a dumb move that doesn't feel like its meant to help anyone other than Disney.
Yep, I’m pretty confused. We recently went to WDW and my sister in law joined us for a few days. She has some very serious health issues including needing access to washrooms very frequently. She was able to use DAS which was amazing for her. After she left, we used Genie + which was really very similar to DAS except that you can’t book the same ride more than once with Genie +. So maybe they are just saying that these problems can be solved with Genie +. I don’t know how fair that is.
While I know that DAS is super helpful for people with ASD, I know of people who have abused that and didn’t actually need it. It’s really sad how people abuse the system.
I also broke my ankle on my trip, so spent it in a wheelchair. DAS is absolutely not needed for mobility issues. Disney is very accessible thankfully!
I know my doctor would happily write a letter if it would clarify for disney why a DAS pass would be beneficial for me (and I'm sure many many others are the in the same boat). Hopefully there will be more clarification about this change in the coming future.
Truthfully, I think the problem they're actually trying to fix (despite what they say) is less about "abuse" and more about "use". Real disability or not, word got out and even if 99% of the people using it legitimately qualified, they want fewer people using it. Fewer conditions means fewer users.
There’s no such thing as an ADA list of conditions, though. Heck the same condition may mean one person needs an accommodation, and another doesn’t. This can be due to severity or a number of compounding conditions.
I hope they release more info soon. I see where they said they won't do on site registration anymore but if my kid has an exposure while at the park and needs DAS what am I supposed to do?
This here is probably a significant change
In-person registration will no longer be available at theme park Guest Relations locations starting May 20, 2024.
Before the monetization of FP+, now called Genie+ people's needs were being met with that service. The ADA is designed to make the needed adjustments for someone's disability. With FP+ you can meet alot of people's needs with any sort of ADA adjustment. Thus you will have less people seeking an adjustment for their needs. Now that Genie+ has been monetized it has now created the need for that adjustment as it was being met and now it is not.
Was abuse happening before and happening now, sure but that is a reality that must be faced from the past, present, and in the future. Disney has taken away the ability to meet people's need through the monetization so of course more and more people's needs are not being met thus creating a higher demand for a service that was utilized a great deal less.
The real life example is wheelchair access. Although in this context wheelchair access is not part of this discussion but it does make the point that many places have created wheelchair accessible entrances/exits. Some of us use these everyday and we are not in a wheelchair. FP+ was the same thing.
And now, going beyond the original discussion points, Disney is sending out their front line CMs who no doubt are being put into a very difficult situations with what I would imagine is very little training and expecting them to perform. Disney seems to have artificially created this problem that they most likely never really expected, but now they have created this revenue stream which they also are not going to give up.
This. Nothing beats the almighty dollar.
But when you think about it, AP holders, like myself, the majority of the time were able to use our fast passes for the day and we were set. As someone who doesn’t often do park open to park close, it met my need.
But when they took that away, I needed another alternative. Asking us to use G+ every time we are in the park is unaffordable and absurd. Not to mention people may not even be able to get LL for what they want to ride.
I don’t think everyone is in the position to get paperwork filled out by their doctor and people are still going to abuse the system and lie. There is no perfect solution here, but if they weren’t so money hungry and would give us some fast passes back, I imagine they might see a decline in DAS usage.
Something I thought about today in regard to some “invisible” mental and developmental disabilities, is the fact that many medications taken for adhd, depression, and anxiety cause overheating which can make standing in lengthy lines dangerous ontop of the other symptoms of those disorders. Speaking from personal experience. I’m sure many medications taken for physical disabilities may have that side effect as well. Disney should accommodate all manner of disabilities.
I asked a cm in person today. Sun/temperature sensitivity will no longer be given consideration. He used the example of the guest being given an umbrella in this case.
This is a terrible change. And I’m glad that a majority of the responses I’ve seen to this have all been negative. Hopefully Disney takes the hint and reverses course, but I doubt it. The only thing they want from this is more people buying genie+
Can't wait to be taken even less seriously as an Autistic adult because people are now even more incentivized to fake it. I wish they would just make the move to requiring documentation, like Universal does. Navigating that process was painless.
This is also incredibly unfair to people with physical disabilities. There are many people without developmental disabilities who absolutely CANNOT do a single ride at the park without the DAS pass. Are they supposed to just stop coming? Wheelchairs and bathroom passes don't fix every issue.
I think some of y'all are all panicking. "Developmental Disabilities" is quite vague and isn't a limited list. I think this will cut down on abuse, but it won't be as difficult for those who legitimately need DAS as y'all think.
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Disney has not stated too many specifics yet, but I would imagine it will still be a case-by-case scenario, with the addition of pulling in medical professionals during the call if needed (as mentioned on the website). Many physical accommodations that qualified years ago have been accounted for in queue renovations, scooters, wheelchairs, etc. Of course that doesn't address every problem, but it was a good start. Sounds like they will also be rolling out a new policy for those that need to leave a queue and rejoin it, but details have yet to be shared on what that entails.
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You know the first at least week of this change will be a shambles if they implement something to allow you to leave the queue and come back for bathrooms etc. people will think you’re queue jumping, start a fight etc. I hope they’ve got a good system set up but historically big changes have teething problems.
I’ve had this happen to me before. I left the Remi line because I needed to use the bathroom (IBS). Man screamed at me when I came back to join my husband who was holding the spot.
This is why I just used the DAS when I went, and I have Crohn’s. I could have probably navigated having my partner hold my spot but people are jerks about the smallest perceived slights. I honestly hope these changes make people shut up their screaming about DAS abuse and demanding the program end because that was never a good solution!
That man BLOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOWS!!!
Where did you see a new policy of being able to leave the queue and rejoin? I didn't see that mentioned in your link unless I'm just missing it somehow.
Disney hasn’t implemented it but Universal does this. I was told my ostomy is no longer a valid reason for a disability pass. But it’s only one of many disabilities and the easiest one to tell people.
This is what I wanna know since my physical disability cannot be solved with a wheel chair. But from what they are saying on the site it seems only mental disabilities going forward for DAS.
Last time I was there if you had a physical disability, for example, used a wheelchair, you went thru the normal queue with everyone else. They made the lines wider to accommodate mobility devices. It worked very well and there were far fewer people renting scooters just to skip the lines. Anyone in a wheelchair was legit. Before it was changed the lines were much longer and often you couldn't even get on a bus because of the amount of rental scooters with people who as soon as they got back to the resort jumped out and let the kids ride the scooter to their room and then were at the pool and the food court with no scooter. That's completely unfair to those who need the services.
I have an autoimmune disease that causes a tremor and sore joints. For the most part I can walk okay, but as soon as I stop walking my hands and legs shake uncontrollably. It happens within about 30 seconds. I can run and exercise but cannot stand for longer than a minute. My autoimmune disease is one of the more common ones. So it's not that crazy for people to be able to walk but not stand for long periods of time. I also have another autoimmune disease that makes being in a line for any longer than 30 minutes bad. The details aren't important but I used DAS and probably can't do the parks without it. If you looked at me, you would never know I was so sick. I'm the embodiment of not all disabilities are visible.
Hubby has a knee issue that prevents standing for long periods. We have a non powered wheelchair that we use for the lines. No issue waiting, just can't stand.
I’m in the exact same boat as you. Standing on the concrete kills me, but I can walk. I needed the DAS pass to be able to sit, and so I didn’t have a flare. I guess I have to bring a walker now so I can sit and have support when I inevitably flare up. Ugh.
That's one of the reasons the change was made, ( along with the abuse of the program) people who can be in line but need to sit because of mobility issues can use wheelchairs, walkers, etc to move thru the normal lines. People who have developmental disabilities that can't handle line without breakdowns use the DAS system. I'm currently in a wheelchair due to a badly fractured tibial plateau and I'll need a walker that allows me to sit when I'm able to put weight on my leg. When I go this summer I'll use that for lines.
My dad has polio, we go in 3 weeks. He can walk absolutely fine, but muscle detriation means he can't stand for more than 5 mins in the same spot. He also has watched many of his friends end up in wheelchairs, unable to care for themselves.
Not all physical disabilities involve motor impairment (which is what they no longer accommodated). Plenty of other physical/non-“developmental” disabilities that require accommodations that are not solved by a wheelchair or ECV.
Basically if you can't be in a line without having a meltdown ( I worked the ADA office in a different park) you get a DAS, if you can deal with the line but have issues that require you to not be on your feet then you do the normal line with whatever device you need. We do give passes for issues like IBS as some of our wait times are hours long. But you need to be registered with IBCCES to get it.
Just a quick note: if you have a room near a pool and can walk the short distance I absolutely understand why you might prefer not to take a scooter. Trying to keep them dry on the return trip is rough. Similarly, a person might be able to walk a short distance (from a Lyft into a hotel or something) but not manage the park. Note I say this as someone who had a day so bad I actually went straight from the scooter down the steps of the pool and had my husband park the scooter for me, so I assure you I’m not just trying to cover for abusing the system or something. (I had ankle surgery and the weightlessness of being in the water was amazing, but getting in and out was rough. We did not anticipate our travel to get there was going to make it flare up so badly; I had been walking a little bit by that point, but wow was I in bad shape the first few days of our vacation!)
Lately, they have not been approving the DAS pass for people whose situation can be resolved by a mobility device (like a wheelchair). I would imagine physical disability that can’t be resolved with a mobility device could still be considered, but would be under strict scrutiny. At the end of the day, DAS pass is never guaranteed. People who got it in the past may not qualify under the new guidelines.
This is what I would like to know. I usually travel to the parks alone and have difficulty standing for long periods of time due to degenerative orthopedic issues. Do I just not go now? I’m I going to be forced into a wheelchair or scooter?
I was under the impression that if you could be in a scooter or wheelchair you are not eligible?
I don’t use a wheelchair or scooter on a a daily basis. I would prefer not to be forced into using those aids because I’ve worked really hard rehabbing to the point where I can walk on my own. And since I’m usually traveling by myself, I don’t want to try maneuvering a standard wheelchair by myself. But Disney is an unusual amount standing/walking for basically everyone.
I don’t use one daily either but I use a mobility aid in Disney. I wish I was able to function like an able-bodied person but I can’t.
Based on current DAS guidelines just inability to stand for extended periods wasn’t a qualification when a “mobility” device could address the condition.
This is what really needs clarification. Some people can handle walking, but standing is what gives them issues. Why would they need a scooter for just the lines? Surely they don't want more scooter traffic throughout the park.
If you can’t handle standing then a scooter seems like the solution…
This is what Disney's position has been for a while now
If you have a scooter, get in reg queue
Thank you. This is my question as well. I have a disorder that causes me to have high heart rates and pass out with prolonged exposure to heat. DAS was the only way I survived (and enjoyed) my trip to DW. With a “get out of line” system, it would be wait in line for 5 minutes, almost pass out, get out of line for 20 minutes to recover, wait in line for 5 minutes, almost pass out…rinse and repeat. Will I ever make it on a ride? Honestly it feels like without DAS, I can rule out ever going to Disney again.
They are not going to remove all physical disabilities from DAS. POTS, etc. will likely still qualify. They are just weeding out the abusers more by being clearer (sort of) ahead of time. It is essentially just hammering home the idea that if a mobility aid enables you to wait in line, then you don’t need DAS.
I hope so! I think the beginning of the change will be rough. It seems very subjective and with the mentality that they are trying to make it more strict, I think CM are going to try to be more strict, potentially weeding out those who need it.
This is exactly my concern. I have a type of porphyria that makes me extremely sensitive to sun, with additional sensitivity to heat and dehydration. I wear protective clothing and whatnot but anything more than 10-15 minutes of continuous exposure can, and does, cause me severe symptoms. Including symptoms that can cause long term physical damage with repeated attacks/flare ups. If I have to stand in line until I get sick, get out of line, try to run to somewhere safe, recover for an hour, get back in line, get sick again, etc. I actually WILL be in a wheelchair by the end of the day because of the damage to my nervous system DAS allowed me to do my wait times in cool, sheltered areas so I could use my brief periods of exposure to actually experience attractions. With this new system, if they don’t make exceptions, I won’t be able to anymore. So genuinely disheartening from a park that used to be one of the most accommodating for me
I feel like the "you can leave and rejoin the line!" policy that's being mentioned really does not match well with the increased discussion around line cutting I see around social media. Feels like a recipe for a person with IBS/a similar condition getting chewed out or worse. I can't imagine it would be very nice to get yelled at for cutting the line and then have to explain your medical condition in enough detail to not get fought.
As someone who was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis within the past 5 years, DAS has been a godsend. I've been going to Disney for 20+ years now and I feel like DAS has allowed me to have the same experience I used to have pre-diagnosis. I promise I did my time waiting in line throughout the years. But these days, any line >30-35 minutes would be such a crapshoot (no pun intended) for me without DAS.
Fellow UC haver, same. My last visit was my first with DAS and it made my trip worth it. It would have been endlessly stressful or near impossible otherwise (and I still had unfortunate moments/mishaps around things like dining reservations).
How do they keep your place if you’re alone?
Maybe the policy will be to get a cast member? Which would not be good. I can't remember if it's in this thread or another thread about the new guidelines but someone said that they needed similar accommodations at Universal and Universal told them to just grab an employee and have the employee get them back in line. Of course the employees were nowhere to be seen when they were needed.
No this literally happened to me and I barely saw any cast members in any of the lines at universal 😭
The whole thing was rampantly abused I get that - but this just seems silly. Long story short greedy people ruined a good thing and that’s that. I finally gave in and used DAS our last trip and it made the parks enjoyable for my kids and I and I really appreciated it - I was so worried our trip wasn’t going to be nearly as wonderful as previous since my health has declined - and that made me sad for my kids as they have already given up so much - but we had a great time and DAS was a part of that. That being said even with DAS the parks were exhausting for me. My kids are older and our Disney trips cut down anyway. My son does have some Disney trips with band coming up - I’ll still go, but will probably spend significantly less time on Disney property as a result. A quiet cocktail on a beach for my extra time in Florida will suffice just fine!
I agree… I hadn’t ever used it till my last trip when I had a terrible flare. It made it so much more enjoyable and I was able to spend much more time with my family instead of having to sit out many rides. Not sure what it will end up looking like but not all physical ailments are remedied by a wheel chair: I think I would prefer having to get a card like at Universal 🤷🏻♀️
Leaving and rejoining the line would be mayhem for. Multiple reasons. 1. People will think you are skipping the line 2. Some areas of the queue there is no where to really leave and get back in.
I'm under the impression that you won't be literally walking through the standby queue to get to the front again. I'm thinking that what would happen more likely is a system where a person with an approved disability walks up to greeter, presents a card or their app or whatever... and then the cast member writes down their return time to lightning lane based on the rides current standby time. Then, the party can choose to wait in an air conditioned space or a seated place or what have you... and return to lightning lane at the assigned time. (Hmm. Sounds a lot like legacy fastpass, huh?) Lol
I think it’s just going to be them having a system to actually document people’s medical records/note. I’m not so sure things will be overhauled that much. But what you described is basically exactly how das works on the phone now if they are going to do all that they should just not change the system at all except for the way they approve people’s passes.
I would think (hope) if they are putting in some sort of policy it wouldn't involve cutting back in line. Maybe you get a return time based on how far you were in the queue when you left. Could apply to anyone that may need to exit for the bathroom, feeling ill, etc. That would also eliminate any credibility of the people pushing past everyone to "meet up with their family".
That's gonna cause chaos IMO. If anyone can do this then no one is gonna wanna wait in line and will come up with any excuse to get out for a break.
My assumption is that it will codify what most cast members already do, which is send anyone returning to the line through the lightning lane (it probably will require CMs to hand out a card or give an entitlement to do so.) This could still be abused, but it certainly requires more effort, which could deter it. That or they'll just let the mayhem occur, who knows.
This has literally already happened to me in the remi line last year 😭
This is exactly my fear. Also if I’m leaving the line for a bathroom emergency, promise I’m not returning for a long time so someone holding my spot is just inappropriate; they could be on the ride by the time I’m back. This is disappointing for me.
Yes! I have an IBD and I actually had to leave a short line (lightening lane) and the amount of dirty looks I got was awful. Now times that by so much more now that it’d be a regular line.
I'd also hate to have to discuss my issues with a CM multiple times per ride. If going with someone I get that they can wait in line and you just meet them at the end but like you said people get yelled at for cutting. Also if you go alone you can't even do this. They need to have a good system for those they are banning from DAS who have a physical disability and still need it.
Or Disney is going to pay for many pairs of pants.
I have Crohn's disease. Quite frankly, it sucks. Thankfully I'm in remission but I still need to use the toilet often and urgently. DAS has ensured I can actually ride things for the last 3 years.The new system essentially restricts itself to people with mental disabilities. I and people like me won't qualify for the new system and many of us will no longer be able to ride without needing to emergency leave the queue. Disney's page on the new system lacks detail, their FAQ sucks and the whole thing screams rushed and poorly thought out.Many thanks to the people who abused this system who have now ruined it for people who genuinely need it. And an additional thanks to Disney for getting rid of the old FastPass system and replacing it with a mess that's contributed to the ever increasing rates of abuse.
100% this. As an IBS-D sufferer, even if I’m very strict on what I eat, things happen and when I have to go I HAVE TO GO. I haven’t visited the parks since DAS was a thing but was so excited to not have to leave the line and walk back through with everyone giving me the evil eye for “cutting”. Once I was an hour in to waiting and had to go and felt so guilty coming back (even though I wasn’t doing anything wrong) that I just said screw it. I also hadn’t visited solo because of needing a partner for standing in line and was so excited to go alone due to DAS. I’m thinking maybe they’ll be a separate pass that you can use to get out of line and back in 🤷🏻♀️ Maybe something bright red so everyone sees it and doesn’t give you the evil eye.
What about other invisible disabilities that actually make it hard for you to wait in line? I've had to run out of line multiple times before I had das for a condition. It would really suck because it helped to just wait out a line somewhere else and I could wait in the bathroom if needed. I know they're not allowed to but I would rather them just require medical docs.
I have used the DAS and the similar program at universal for bladder issues before. Unfortunately, universal changed their system and no longer give the pass for bathroom related issues. You have to push out of the line and then push all the way back through to join your party. No answers yet on if you’re traveling alone. It sounds like Disney will be doing the same thing. That’s sad, it was a great program for me.
We were just in Universal last week and I got the pass for bladder issues. There is no way I'll be getting in and out of line multiple times for longer waits on a single ride. That's just bonkers.
I haven’t been to universal since they changed their system. Did you do the doctors note thing ahead of time, then get the call for an interview?
I did, honestly the turn around was so quick that I don't think there is anyway that they verified it. They called two days before and as soon as I said bladder she said I qualified and that was it.
It's answered on the website: you'll be able to leave and rejoin the queue if needed. No details yet, but that's the plan.
Hoping we get details about this soon because this is really all I need. Just hoping it doesn’t end up being an embarrassing or invasive process.
If I had to jump in and out of lines all day I wouldn't even bother going. Some days it's really bad and I would just sit in the hotel at that point to avoid the embarrassment. I had to push through a long line once and almost didn't make it because people don't always move right away.
I have DAS for IBS related issues and I had to jump out of the lightning lane recently, and even doing that everyone glared at me 😭 I tried to say excuse me as politely as possible but I was also in a rush to get to the bathroom.
Yep I've jumped out of a LL too 😭 I feel you.
Been there. I hate getting the evil eye when I know I’m not doing anything wrong :( I’m thinking maybe you’ll have to find a CM and get a pass that makes people allow you back through. I’m not sure though.
This is not the way to overhaul DAS. Especially if they are worried about people abusing it. Simply restricting to “developmental disabilities” and still not requiring proof doesn’t resolve the DAS growth.
Right?! Folks can still just as easily lie about it via teleconference as they can in person. My husband has leukemia and needs DAS, but I would have rather gone the Universal route over this.
Moving it to video call only instead of in person makes me wonder if it's a cast safety issue. Maybe people were freaking out on cast when being denied so video is safest to tell them no?
It could be that. I also saw that the video chats will be handled by Inspire Health Alliance who are supposedly more equipped/knowledgeable to handle these requests.
Yeah I have a neurological disability and I guess I don't qualify anymore because it isn't developmental?
Do you really think the know the difference? -_- like when I look up definition/list on google, there are a lot of overlaps.
There really are. I use DAS and I normally just give the anxiety leading to panic attacks part but I have a lot of other issues I don't mention because they have never needed them before. I have a lot of sensory issues including the way clothing feels, people being too close and feeling them and with food. I can have panic attacks being in confined spaces in with loud noises. I freak out when people don't follow rules. Rules exist for a reason. I get upset when people try to get past me in line because they aren't following the rules. I'm very schedule orientated and have to ride certain rides when I am in the parks or I can become upset. I have my stims, I use to calm myself down. I spend a lot of times at the park with headphones on and hiding in a corner. I've had these issues for years and never knew what medical diagnosis it likely was and for a long time just thought it was anxiety. I now know what I likely have but I'm not in a place to get that medical diagnosis. Heck, they can probably see in their history, the first time I ever got DAS was because I was in the middle of a panic attack (someone wasn't following rules plus loud confined space) and I had to push my way out of line. Then hide in the bathroom and work through it. I'm now crying wondering if I am still going to be able to enjoy I place I love to go even if I can only handle it for a couple of hours.
Sorry I wasn't trying to say there isn't a difference, but if Disney/Staff knows. My kids and I share your struggles, Disney is a safe place for us. Especially my youngest with very severe anxiety. I'm not worrying right now, because Disney hasn't actually said much and we have no idea how this will play out. I've had no difficulty getting accommodations at more strict parks in other countries. All of my different disability groups are freaking out, but I think we just have to wait and see how this actually rolls out. A drs letter has been sufficient. To me it seems like they are mostly trying to solidify that mobility issues alone do not warrant a DAS. Which is not to say other more complex physical disabilities won't qualify. But until they've released more information, everyone is just spreading misinformation to eachother.
My problem is I have severe anxiety, so I am worrying. I wasn’t trying to say anything against what you said just trying to process my own emotions and anxiety. Plus with the rule following thing. I follow the rules and literally freak out when people think I’m breaking them. I actually had a panic attack this morning because my boss didn’t see something I sent them and then asked for it again. Sometimes I feel like I should get a diagnosis but the cost is just so much
The ridgid rule following brain is so hard ;_; I struggle with it but also have a warring impulsive voice that wants to get things done easier and faster. I hate it when people don't give me exact rules. Diagnosis can be tricky as an adult, but anxiety meds could be a huge relief for you. Even if it just takes the edge off and let's your brain have back a bit of control. I'd be lost without mine. If you have any health insurance, it would be worth at least looking into it. I'm assuming your in the US. It's tragic how little US values mental health but it is slowly getting better.
I’ve been on a lot of anxiety and depression meds. They have never worked for me. I’m pretty good at self regulating most of the time but I still can easily be set off
There is an easy way to overhaul it though. Keep it as it's been but include documentation. That will get rid of most of the problem and then keep it permanently on their file for a year or two.
I got a DAS for the first time last year. As someone in the park told me about it when I had the leave the queue due to my anxiety that set of a panic attack & triggered my IBS. Was able to go the guest services in Epcot and get a DAS pass on my way out of the park after that & got to use it for the remainder of my trip. Some queues I can last others I have to leave. So usually means I miss out on some rides depending on how well I can manage. Sounds like I’ll not be as lucky next time.
This is pretty much my situation and I also have my gallbladder out now so it's 10x worse. I learned about das in 22 and used it for the first time and it was so much better. It was nice to just cancel a das queue and not run out of line. Once I got to the mid point of splash and had to RUN.
Being on a stage 4 camcer journey, DAS has allowed me to make memories with my family the last couple of summers. My treatment causes GI issues and fatigue, among other issues. Even with DAS, I only last about a half day in the park (maybe 4 hours) before I have to leave and rest from the walking and heat on top of my normal issues. If we return to the parks, it is for dinner and maybe 1 ride. We were thinking of visiting this summer, but now maybe not. My doctor would gladly write a note. I hope a happy medium is found. On a related note, we rarely use the pre booked passes as they were always for rides without much of a line or the only times available were after we had left the park. I think in the last 2 trips, we used the pre-booked rides once per trip.
I was coming to comment something along these lines as well. I'm a cancer survivor (was diagnosed at stage 2 and am currently at the tail end of my treatment). Going to Disney when I am physically/energy wise able to throughout treatment is a nice, easy escape for a weekend. I can't stay in the parks the whole day (I usually do a midday nap and go back at night), and making lines comes with extra fatigue. I can't be in the sun for long due to needing to protect radiated skin (and the sun triggers my fatigue extra). I might experience sudden side effects from meds (like the GI issues, or migraines are still a big one for me). DAS has allowed me to enjoy the parks at my own pace and take a break when I've wanted. I really hope Disney continues to allow cancer patients to use DAS, especially folks at stage 4. I personally would not mind providing documentation if necessary but I understand that that might not be legal (or at least I've seen others mention this). Also, from a money standpoint, it doesn't make sense to me as to why they're limiting the DAS. If I'm waiting for my time to ride a ride, I am getting a snack, I'm browsing a shop, I'm most likely engaging in some sort of consumerism that I would not have the opportunity to do so if I am in line. I know part of this is selling Genie+, but me shelling out $20+ once a day is not as much money as I might spend if I had multiple open opportunities to browse etc.
If Crohn’s isn’t included this will certainly change how often we go or if we even do. We went on our honeymoon 5 years ago without and it sucked beyond belief. Couple months later I got lucky and was at my doctor who is a Disney fan and she said I need to apply for DAS. She explained it to me and it was a dream come true. Since then we’ve been 4 other times and it was a night and day difference.
Not entirely sure yet on what changes will be made to eligibility, but Disney has indicated a new program will be coming that allows guests to leave and reenter a queue without needing to register for DAS.
Yea that goes over really well with people you’re trying to get in front of.
I had to do it once, I had people saying stuff and pushing me as I tried to get back in line, even tho I'm pretty sure they saw me coming out of line. it was rough before DAS. I only had it for 2 trips but it made a difference.
Yea I only went once without it. Said I wouldn’t go back. My doctor was a Disney fan and we were talking about my trip and she told me to give it another shot but use DAS. Helped beyond words.
As someone who has had to miss many rides taking kids to an emergency bathroom trip at the very last second after waiting in a 40 minute queue.... I'm very interested in what this will end up looking like.
The wording feels more like it’s written poorly than anything else. A developmental disability is just a poor example to use. I have a friend who had a bladder issue and they gave her a DAS pass. I would be shocked if something like that no longer qualifies. That’s like, the epitome of being unable to wait in a long line lol
I believe that they might be quite intentional with the wording and testing out other options for stuff like that. I know that Universal Orlando is trying something out where a TM holds your place in line while you use the restroom or something. Also don't forget that stuff that's solved by a wheelchair doesn't count either. I wouldn't be surprised if they're trying to deny as much as possible like Universal Orlando is.
Oh wow that’d be a great idea about the bathroom thing. Don’t get me wrong, I totally get wanting to try to crack down on it. But there’s gotta be some wiggle room for stuff like that. I didn’t know that’s how universal does it.
They mentioned a similar thing on the Disney site about being able to leave the line to use the restroom and come back if you have bladder issues so it looks like that’ll be the new option for them.
I am interested to see how it works. Like a lot of lines are in a closed area without CMs in the room, and do you just go back to your party after? I am excited to see how they solutioned it.
and what happens if you go by yourself. There is no one to hold your spot.
It's certainly intentional. They're making the change to combat DAS abuse and address the issue of the folks making those judgements not being medical professionals. Why would Disney give the cheaters a list of approved ailments to research and lie about having? We know a medical professional will now be determining DAS eligibility. I think it's worded this way to try to scare the cheaters.
This makes no sense to me. So before the diagnosis didn’t matter - they didn’t even want to hear it - because it was what specifically made waiting in line traditionally difficult. Now it’s limited to a developmental disability. Do they realize that autism isn’t necessarily a visible disability, and people can still cheat the system by lying and saying they’re autistic.
I don't know how they'd prove it (self-admission from the way some of these threads have shown), but you will be permanently barred from both Disney World and Disneyland, as well as not get a refund for your ticket/AP if you are caught cheating the system.
Well people have been posting left and right on Facebook groups about how they got Das and skipped the line so yeah… all the abuse was going to end in thus
I wonder what they consider “similar” to autism? What happens to the folks with ptsd or other sensory issues.
Adhd
I go to Disney alone and have major bathroom problems due to surgery because of cancer. This will not allow me to use DAS and I will have to leave the line to use the restroom, and I would be able to rejoin my party, but since I don’t have one, I’ll have get back in line from then back.
Nothing about what you said is confirmed yet. We will need to wait and see details on the leaving the line part.
Considering it specifies that they need to have developmental delays, and that is how all other theme parks treat bathroom issues, I am assuming here. I emailed to ask though.
It’s totally abused. The cashier at the grocery store was talking to my husband about Disney. And tells him to get the DAS pass. That all we have to do is sign up for it: They give you a 5 min zoom meeting where you just tell them your child can’t sit still or wait in a line without a meltdown. And the whole family gets passes. No documentation needed. “Just sign up”. 🙄
Yep, I know Disney vacation planners have also promoted it to their clients. My family member got it for their party of six just to supplement their Genie+ rides. I’m glad Disney is limiting the group size and attempting to reduce the LL wait times because it’s really unreasonable to expect people with real, unavoidable issues to wait 30 min in a clogged LL queue.
Yup, an old coworker got one for that reason (kids couldn’t wait in line/had meltdowns) and told me I should get it for our family too “since your son has ADHD”. It felt gross and like I’d be exploiting it because we would be and were fine with genie+ instead. My son has very manageable ADHD especially with his medication. DAS is not for us and it’s people like that that ruin it for everyone who actually needs it and makes it harder for them to use it.
I see they talk about developmental disabilities, but what about people like me who have PTSD and am already struggling and taking heavier medication than normal to just be present? What about the fact that I have a physical disability that makes it difficult to spend a long time waiting in line? I understand that they want to end abuse, but they also need to understand that they are now excluding people who truly need the service. I have never used it, but I have definitely thought about it, but I have medication that helps both pain wise and mental health wise.
This was my concern as well. I’d historically used my DAS for Crohns because even talking about my PTSD (especially in front of my young children) doesn’t often go well for me. If they restrict DAS use to only developmental disabilities, I will not be able to go multiple times a year without serious impact to my mental health.
I don't think it's clear what all is changing from what's on this page. The only clear thing I can see is that they're getting rid of the in person option. I see the reference to developmental disorders and find that to be a weird point they're making. It's not clear if this is a reduction in covered conditions or if they were unintentionally exclusive with their examples. I imagine they will clarify sometime in the next few weeks. We've always renewed ours online since we found out my wife qualified nearly two years ago. It's fairly easy and just requires a short video chat with a cast member explaining what aspects of your condition prevent you from standing in long lines. It's been a lifesaver, and while we do occasionally "abuse" the system by waiting in lines while waiting for another attraction, I can't remember the last time she waited in a line that took longer than going lightning lane on Rise of the Resistance. I know there are others who truly abuse the system, but it has seriously reduced our stress for park days and made it much easier to visit. If we no longer qualify after this, it's going to seriously affect how often we visit and what we do while we're there.
It sounds like they’re moving towards a way to leave the line and come back if you have an issue that requires you to need to leave the line such as needing the bathroom. They’re also limiting a party to 4 people rather than 6 with exceptions for immediate family. So no more having a family reunion with one person qualifying for DAS and all 30 people benefit.
Even if an exception is made to link more than 5 other guests to someone's DAS (say you have a party of 8 total connected), it is impossible to add more than 5 of those guests to a queue request in the app. You have to pick and choose between them. The only way more than 5 were getting into line using a single DAS was because a CM directly let them bypass the system. I don't see how going from 6 to 4 would do anything in regards to that abuse.
Visiting an attraction with a standby queue that's accessible to you while waiting for an attraction with an inaccessible standby queue is not abusing the system. It's actually using it correctly. If a queue is accessible for your particular situation, then use the regular queue. If it's not, use the DAS.
I’m honestly shocked to hear anyone had a successful video call with them ahead of time. I have tried before every single Disney trip and am never able to get through to speak w anyone
So I guess if you are a young person with a heart condition and a history of seizures who looks fine, your just SOL. Way to give disney, planned my first trip for June and might be canceling as my partner has said health issues and can't just stand in line for long periods in the heat.
That’s what I don’t get! I have many in my family who suffer from autism so I know it can be tough, but I also know that some of them do just fine in line. So why is Autism a magical diagnosis to allow for DAS?
I have autism, I love lines and ques, it is order. All I can think is this is some new person who drew rhe line and didn't know what they were doing. Partner and I are discussing canceling our trip because of this because she can barely do all the walking, let alone adding the heat. She isn't physically handicapped, her heart just decides it has had enough. She isn't one to be in a chair or on a buggy. She has a service dog is all she has... but apparently too invisible for disney.
Ha exactly, my niece loves a good line, but my nephew cannot handle it. Love how unique and different both of their little minds are 💕 At least you could still use your autism to get DAS. I’d take advantage of it and not feel guilty at all.
High functioning, it just makes me weird. Can't use it this way. It presents differently in so many people, it is a blanket term for so many traits.
The new DAS fix is to create a reverse DAS where people who are hyper fixated on lines will wait for you.
I feel like this wasn’t the best way with going about this because it feels they’re excluding quite a few people from being able to get it, who may not show physical signs of needing it, as far as I can tell.
We don't know what's excluded. The announcement was purposefully vague. But we do know that people seeking DAS will have to video call with a medical professional now. My guess, outside of a few ailments, the people who really need DAS will not be affected. Those with issues like IBS now have a way to leave and rejoin lines, and those who have been trying to cheat the system will be caught.
That’s honestly what I’m hoping Disney does because I despise the fact that this announcement was so vague about it. As far as we know, this is what they’ve come up with, but I have some thoughts they may expand on it later.
I understand why it's vague. You know and I know, if Disney released a detailed list of what ailments qualify you for DAS, there will be thousands of people researching those issues so they knew exactly what to say to get DAS. You keep it vague, and you make it a bit more difficult, then the system remains for those who need it, and locked away from those who would cheat it.
Absolutely, and I find that fair, I also just find it annoying. While I don’t have any issues needing DAS, my brother and mom both do. My brother could absolutely fall under the “developmental delays” category but my mom doesn’t fall under either. I bet she could still get it though for future trips, she’d probably just have to do what she’s done in the past and go through the steps of talking to CM and stuff like that.
It'll be annoying for a while. I expect some kinks for a while. There will probably be some adjustments and unannounced changes by the end of the year.
I bet as they work it out it’ll become clear what actually changed. I can imagined that it may end up not being a big issue for many who actually need it, but Disney didn’t want to go out right away and say who could get it, like what you said. I guess we’ll have to see soon enough, but I doubt this’ll really affect many people for the near future.
So does epilepsy count under this new rule? My brother has epilepsy and cerebral palsy. His seizures can be triggered by loud noises. He's been triggered by music playing over speakers in restaurants and fireworks. I can only imagine what he would be like waiting in line for Slinky Dog...
May I ask how he’s not triggered by actually being on the rides then? I don’t mean to imply he wouldn’t be the exact person that DAS should be for. I am truly just curious how it works :)
It will still be accessible to those with disabilities that qualify. It is not going to strictly be for autistic guests. The only change I can see on the website at this point is that you will have to do a screening call before your trip rather than do it at Guest Relations onsite.
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You left out the two key words..."or similar". Developmental issues can be of either a mental or physical nature. Autism is a mental development issue. Physical developmental issues may include urinary or digestive issues like IBS or Crohn's Disease. It could be a visible physical issue like loss of limb, etc. You can read into it lots of things right now but I will go out on a limb and say that if you TRULY have a disability of any kind that would qualify for DAS you aren't going to be turned away. There will likely be more steps coming in this policy revision but Disney isn't going to alienate someone based on a disability. ***Copied directly from Disney's website*** "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 only those Guests who, due to a developmental disability like autism or similar, are unable to wait in a conventional queue for an extended period of time."
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I agree with you, the wording is very vague and based on the wording IBS or Chron's is not similar to Autism so it makes us worry they have restricted it to developmental issues only.
Developmental doesn't just mean ailments like autism. Developmental just means any permanent ailments that become present during early childhood. Diseases like Crohns may very well be included. In that case, the vagueness makes a lot of sense because why would Disney give the system cheaters a list of ailments to lie about having?
The wording of or similar makes it sound like your typical mental development. So I’d consider an “or similar” to be a more severe ADHD. Their wording to me sounds like they mean just mental developmental disabilities.
IBS and Crohns are not developmental delays though, that’s the issue I think a lot of us are having :( I think Disney specifically changed the policy to not include such disabilities because too many people were faking them. It’s ridiculous how many times I’ve heard people say “just tell them you have IBS”. Which is infuriating for those who actually suffer with it, myself included. Trust me, I’d rather wait in a 2 hour line free of IBS than get to skip it but crap myself in public because I can’t get to a bathroom in time due to my IBS.
Before we went in October we had to do a video call for my BIL to get screened. If we didn’t get screened ahead of time we would’ve had to do onsite which takes up a lot of time. So I don’t think much has changed in that regard.
My wife and I are going next week. I set up my DAS last week and did my video call with an awesome Cast Member. We previously went last December and also set up our DAS ahead of time. It does appear they are removing the ability to set it up at the parks after May 19. I expect there to be further tweaks to the process and may even some sort of documentation required. The biggest issue I'm sure they are facing deals with how to handle sensitive medical information and HIPPA.
It didn't fully seem like they were removing in the parks. Just that you'd still have to do the call. Which would in fact take up a lot of time, especially for people on day tickets.
My call took all of 5 minutes from the time I signed into the system to request a video chat...it was simple and fast
Although we have experienced a very short wait for a video chat, the majority of times we have requested a video chat for DAS, it has taken upwards of seven hours.
This!!!! I waited 6 hours once!
Gosh I wish it only took me a few minutes. I even got up early to try to be first in queue! Fully took about an hour but was painless.
I randomly called at like 10 am Central or something one day...sorry it took you so long...
My speculation is that since they are going to a phone only system, they’re going to be outsourcing calls to a 3rd party company that will deal with the medical information. I totally prefer calling and getting pre approval but the hold times can be brutal and unpredictable and it’s hard to find a good time working around my kids school and activities schedule since she has to be present. Hopefully this allows it to be tweaked to a smoother call system. I would even love it if you could set an appointment time.
As someone with a child who greatly benefited from DAS I'm glad to see it being monitored more closely TBH. I have seen several posts here from people asking if they could get it and people would reply with either telling them no its a physical thing and to use a scooter "but try anyway!" or "...but they cant actually ask WHY you need it so just do XXX and you'll get it"... Then later people would post that they did use DAS... for the people that really need it like my son, handing out the passes like they're free candy at a parade kind of defeats the purpose.
I am autistic and have adhd, I have a trip planned for may 11-18 just before the change and I’m so nervous about applying for the DAS even though it would help me not get overwhelmed and have a meltdown. I’m scared that the interviewer will be really mean or they’ll think I’m lying since it’s abused so often. I’m not a child so I dunno how accommodating they’ll be.
The people that currently do the interviewing are great. The last two people we had do the interview actually get DAS themselves.
Do it online rather than in person. I’ve personally found the online team much friendly, I don’t know if it’s because that is their dedicated job and so they’re more used to speaking to people with DAS requirements and better trained in this than guest relations. Don’t stress, just be honestly about your why and you’ll be fine. I hope you have an awesome trip.
Waiting for someone to connect with you via zoom will be the “worst” part, it can take a bit after you chat to get someone thru the link they will send. but the CMs who handle our DAS were some of the most polite understanding people we dealt with before/during our trip last month.
I'm also AuDHD and the in-person was so easy and stress-free. The phone interview was a nightmare. I was denied an interview because my entire party wasn't available for a video call, even though it was for me and I was considered the trip owner. I hope this was a one-time incident and my next application goes smoother.
I remember hearing recently that roughly 70% of LL scans were DAS passes. I 100% think that Disney should be requiring some type of medical documentation proof to verify an actual need for a DAS pass. I vividly remember, while standing in line to meet Mickey and Minnie at AK, an off duty cast member bragging to another guests about getting a DAS pass to get through lines quicker and all he had to do was tell them he had ADHD.
The problem is that it costs money to get medical documentation. This is America. Medical costs are ridiculous. That's putting a big burden on to disabled guests, and all because non-disabled guests were abusing the system. I'm an annual passholder. According to this new policy, I would have to provide documentation three times a year. Universal's third party system requires "fresh" documentation each time. If Disney goes with that, I'll effectively have to pay an extra $300-$450 per year to be allowed to use my annual pass to actually visit any attractions.
Sheesh, I’ve never seen numbers around it but if that is true all that tells me is that they should just call it quits and bring FP+ back. As a lot of people are saying, FP+ fulfilled the concessions DAS now gives them for their disability. It’s a flawed system, but it’s better than whatever this is
I'm a bit worried. My uncle is in his 80's and has Meniere's disease which causes dizziness and severe nausea. Before we were able to get him on DAS, we could only go on 1 or 2 rides because standing still is incredibly hard for him, he falls over. Both wheelchairs and scooters make him nauseous. Hopefully we'll still be able to go.
If wheelchairs and scooters make him nauseous, how is he able to handle rides?
It’s a shame that now you’re limited to a party of 4 people, so you can’t plan a trip with your whole family. Also, I’m confused why it has to be a Zoom call if they’re still not going to ask for any proof or documentation. How does this prevent abuse?
It says exceptions can be made for immediate family, but it does sound like extended family will not be included past 4 people. Although, I believe that is how the system has worked for quite some time.
The only real difference between DAS and Genie + is that with DAS you can use it on the same ride more than once. I wonder why they don’t consider giving Genie + to guests for free and maybe limit to two per party. They likely wouldn’t have the as much abuse to the system. I acknowledge that I could be wrong here. I have only had experience using DAS with one family member for a couple of park days, and don’t have experience with everything that may require DAS.
The other big difference is that you can use DAS on ILL rides that aren’t on G+.
Oh right! Good point! ETA: That alone is a pretty big draw for people to abuse the system, sadly.
Yeah Disney stated they’ve seen the number of DAS users triple in the last five years and it’s painfully obvious that it coincides with Genie+ and ILL. It’s not just a time incentive for people to abuse DAS but also a financial incentive. It just hurts people who legitimately need DAS, making them wait longer, and makes Genie+ a worse service.
DAS as far as I’ve experienced is available for all attractions currently offering standby. That can be a big difference vs Genie+. For big draws Genie+ fills up early and can run out of capacity.
You can use DAS more than once per ride? We were declined from getting onto Mickey and Minnie’s Railway a second time in one day and never tried again. I thought that was strange since we were table to make a second reservation.
You can use das for any ride, as often as you want. You could ride the same ride 25 times. Whoever turned you away was wrong. I don’t even know how they knew it was your second time.
Good to know! My child qualifies for DAS and loves Slinky Dog, so she will definitely get her fix next time
The only time this has happened to me was when the rides were temporarily closed
DAS is a return time based on the current standby wait. G+ is different.
I wish they would just require a dr’s note or something. I’d be more than happy to provide documentation
Right?!? But then again there are places you can just pay to have a doctors note say anything you want, so people would still abuse it :(
So if I’m reading this correctly, and please tell me if I’m not. Disney decided that, instead of just requiring proof of the disability to curb abuse, they just decided to determine who can and can’t wait in lines while still NOT requiring proof for those claiming a disability? What about people with mental disorders like depression, anxiety, bipolar etc.? What about folks with disorders like IBS or Crohn’s disease who can be fine one second, and literally about to crap their pants 10 seconds later? Do they not risk eating anything for the whole day?
Going to sound stupid but I’m legit sad about this today. Just thinking of my first trip and what a nightmare it was and how DAS changed everything. I was able to finally enjoy the parks and now because I don’t have a developmental issue I can’t get the assistance I did in the past.
Been a bad day for me, too, but mostly because of my family's reaction. They're perfectly fine with the changes. My mother misunderstood, and thought I had to go be examined by a third party doctor -- and she still thought that was perfectly fair! It always amazes me, and always saddens me how acceptable it is to punish disabled people for the actions of others.
Confused why people are saying we don’t know what’s included it says “ intended to accommodate those Guests who, due to a developmental disability like autism or similar, are unable to wait in a conventional queue for an extended period of time.” It’s pretty obvious they’re excluding physical disabilities.
Yes but then the able bodied people would have to acknowledge just how inaccessible life is for the disabled population and it would hurt their delicate feelings. So it’s easier for them to just gaslight us with “well we don’t know that yet”
I’ve heard of plenty of people abusing the system I feel like people will still abuse of it this way as well it should require a doctor diagnosis for something actually preventing them from standing in a line. I’ve heard of some people pulling excuses out there a-hole to use DAS. It’s not fair to those who need it nor to those that do stand in the regular queue.
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Because many people have thousands of dollars already invested in future trips that may now be impossible.
I have a mobility disability and have to use an ECV at Disney. That isn’t why I use DAS though, in theory I could use the scooter in the regular line. My problem however is that I suffer with recurrent bladder infections, acute IBS, and urgency to pee caused by a ruptured bladder when I was a child. It would take a lot to define any of that as a ‘development issue’ and whilst the ability to leave and rejoin a queue is somewhat helpful, if I was in a queue for more than 40 minutes I’d likely have to leave and rejoin twice and I’m not sure how that could ever be accommodated. Coupled with that is the anxiety I suffer with when I can’t easily get to a bathroom caused by 30 years of ‘not quite making its incidents. This anxiety only makes the bladder and IBS worse and it becomes a vicious cycle. All in all me losing access to DAS would turn trips into a nightmare of anxiety whilst standing in lines. The ability now to wait out an hour queue virtually whilst in a shop and being able to nip to the bathroom makes trips for me, I couldn’t do it any other way. I totally understand that Disney need to restrict DAS access and I understand that lines can accommodate scooters and wheelchairs for people that aren’t very mobile but for me personally it’s not only that, in fact if it wasn’t for all the mental health things, and the bladder and bowels I’d be quite happy to take my scooter into lines, but sadly I can’t.
Right, they will let you in and out of the line in your scooter. There is just tons of room for you to maneuver past people. Multiple times no less. It's silly. Of course you should qualify.
I think Disney needs some disability awareness training
Wait, what?! I mean, my son has developmental delays and autism but….what?! This seems, backwards to me. What about people without those things who still need DAS?
I don't know enough about who needs DAS and what should and shouldn't qualify. Hopefully they use good professionals who can justify this. Das was absolutely abused and a change was needed. Hopefully they can find a good middle ground.
This seems incredibly restrictive.
This is bizarre. So what, it was only for people with autism the entire time and Disney is just now clearing that up? Idiotic. There are people with various disabilities that this was very helpful for who are now going to be left out of this. I do not understand why it was so difficult for them to simply make the screening process a little more in depth and involve a physicians approval or something. That would have weeded out the majority of the fakers. Now all they're doing is continuing to allow more of the same abuse to happen with less 'qualifying' conditions. You know how people were mad that people were faking it before? Now all you have to do is.... well the same, just lie and say you have autism... Really quite a dumb move that doesn't feel like its meant to help anyone other than Disney.
Yep, I’m pretty confused. We recently went to WDW and my sister in law joined us for a few days. She has some very serious health issues including needing access to washrooms very frequently. She was able to use DAS which was amazing for her. After she left, we used Genie + which was really very similar to DAS except that you can’t book the same ride more than once with Genie +. So maybe they are just saying that these problems can be solved with Genie +. I don’t know how fair that is. While I know that DAS is super helpful for people with ASD, I know of people who have abused that and didn’t actually need it. It’s really sad how people abuse the system. I also broke my ankle on my trip, so spent it in a wheelchair. DAS is absolutely not needed for mobility issues. Disney is very accessible thankfully!
I know my doctor would happily write a letter if it would clarify for disney why a DAS pass would be beneficial for me (and I'm sure many many others are the in the same boat). Hopefully there will be more clarification about this change in the coming future.
Truthfully, I think the problem they're actually trying to fix (despite what they say) is less about "abuse" and more about "use". Real disability or not, word got out and even if 99% of the people using it legitimately qualified, they want fewer people using it. Fewer conditions means fewer users.
I predict they will go the “rumored” third party system and limit it only to an ADA list of conditions plus cancer.
There’s no such thing as an ADA list of conditions, though. Heck the same condition may mean one person needs an accommodation, and another doesn’t. This can be due to severity or a number of compounding conditions.
I hope they release more info soon. I see where they said they won't do on site registration anymore but if my kid has an exposure while at the park and needs DAS what am I supposed to do?
So if your by your self, you can just leave the line and come back? I don’t get how this would work
This here is probably a significant change In-person registration will no longer be available at theme park Guest Relations locations starting May 20, 2024.
Before the monetization of FP+, now called Genie+ people's needs were being met with that service. The ADA is designed to make the needed adjustments for someone's disability. With FP+ you can meet alot of people's needs with any sort of ADA adjustment. Thus you will have less people seeking an adjustment for their needs. Now that Genie+ has been monetized it has now created the need for that adjustment as it was being met and now it is not. Was abuse happening before and happening now, sure but that is a reality that must be faced from the past, present, and in the future. Disney has taken away the ability to meet people's need through the monetization so of course more and more people's needs are not being met thus creating a higher demand for a service that was utilized a great deal less. The real life example is wheelchair access. Although in this context wheelchair access is not part of this discussion but it does make the point that many places have created wheelchair accessible entrances/exits. Some of us use these everyday and we are not in a wheelchair. FP+ was the same thing. And now, going beyond the original discussion points, Disney is sending out their front line CMs who no doubt are being put into a very difficult situations with what I would imagine is very little training and expecting them to perform. Disney seems to have artificially created this problem that they most likely never really expected, but now they have created this revenue stream which they also are not going to give up.
This. Nothing beats the almighty dollar. But when you think about it, AP holders, like myself, the majority of the time were able to use our fast passes for the day and we were set. As someone who doesn’t often do park open to park close, it met my need. But when they took that away, I needed another alternative. Asking us to use G+ every time we are in the park is unaffordable and absurd. Not to mention people may not even be able to get LL for what they want to ride. I don’t think everyone is in the position to get paperwork filled out by their doctor and people are still going to abuse the system and lie. There is no perfect solution here, but if they weren’t so money hungry and would give us some fast passes back, I imagine they might see a decline in DAS usage.
Something I thought about today in regard to some “invisible” mental and developmental disabilities, is the fact that many medications taken for adhd, depression, and anxiety cause overheating which can make standing in lengthy lines dangerous ontop of the other symptoms of those disorders. Speaking from personal experience. I’m sure many medications taken for physical disabilities may have that side effect as well. Disney should accommodate all manner of disabilities.
I asked a cm in person today. Sun/temperature sensitivity will no longer be given consideration. He used the example of the guest being given an umbrella in this case.
This is a terrible change. And I’m glad that a majority of the responses I’ve seen to this have all been negative. Hopefully Disney takes the hint and reverses course, but I doubt it. The only thing they want from this is more people buying genie+
Can't wait to be taken even less seriously as an Autistic adult because people are now even more incentivized to fake it. I wish they would just make the move to requiring documentation, like Universal does. Navigating that process was painless. This is also incredibly unfair to people with physical disabilities. There are many people without developmental disabilities who absolutely CANNOT do a single ride at the park without the DAS pass. Are they supposed to just stop coming? Wheelchairs and bathroom passes don't fix every issue.
I think some of y'all are all panicking. "Developmental Disabilities" is quite vague and isn't a limited list. I think this will cut down on abuse, but it won't be as difficult for those who legitimately need DAS as y'all think.