As Disney (DIS) grapples with the aftermath of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis revoking the company's special tax district, some experts say the dissolution might not even happen.
Still, the bill was signed into law by Governor DeSantis on Friday and, barring any major backpedaling on the part of lawmakers, will go into effect in June 2023. Disney could also sue Florida for retaliation in an attempt to thwart the legislation, although experts say it is more likely that the media giant will enter into negotiations to alter the terms of the district.
That means Disney controls all of its utilities and infrastructure, sets building codes, operates its own police and fire departments, and can expand and grow whenever it wishes — all without local or state government interference.
"I call it a Vatican with mouse ears, because it's essentially the same kind of authority that the Vatican has in Rome in the state of Italy," the historian said.
Consequently, the district (in addition to providing immense control and flexibility) saves the company tens of millions of dollars every year in certain taxes and fees.