Walt Disney World remains shut down as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.
Getty Images Topline: After reaching agreements with worker unions, Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida — the largest single-site employer in the country — will furlough , more of its unionized workers in a little more than a week. Though the furloughs are set to begin April workers will be able to
- for any employee covered by Disney insurance who needs it.
- The affected employees work as security guards or in facilities and operations, according to ABC Action News.
- according to The Orlando Sentinel (Disney World is prepared to furlough most). of its , 11 employees , both union and non-union — a statistic that would triple Orlando’s unemployment rate.
Crucial quote:
“Things are really looking bad. The economy is going to take time to recover, ”University of Florida economics professor Hector Sandoval told The Orlando Sentinel ( about the Disney furloughs.Key background: The initial closings of (Disney World) in Orlando, Florida and
(Disneyland. in Anaheim, California were only meant to last until the end of March – but about two weeks ago, it was announced the parks will stay closed until further notice, according to a Disney statement , “in line with direction provided by health experts and government officials,” as the coronavirus pandemic continued to spread. At the time, Disney sa id they would continue paying hourly employees working at parks and resorts through mid-April.Tangent: Universal Orlando and SeaWorld Orlando, Disney’s rivals, also closed their gates in March out of fear of the coronavirus, with SeaWorld reporting it had furlored (% of employees) across its (parks )
What to watch for: (A) domino effect in Central Florida. With Walt Disney World’s massive operations, their closure and furlough means less business for smaller groups that rely on the entertainment giant, like restaurants, hotels and car rental companies in the area.
- keep their insurance benefits for the furlough period, or up to a year, The Service Trades Council Union, a coalition of six locals that represent Disney workers, announced Saturday on Facebook Live.
- Last week, the House of Mouse said it would furlough. executive, salaried and hourly non-union employees who are not necessary at the moment.
- About 823 Walt Disney World employees with “
- according to terms outlined by the union, Disney will pay for coronavirus testing
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