Disneyland reopening on hold as California delays theme park guidelines
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[October 03, 2020] By
Lisa Richwine
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - California's health
secretary on Friday agreed to hear more input from theme park operators
before issuing reopening guidelines, a step that further delays Walt
Disney Co's <DIS.N> plans to welcome visitors back to Disneyland.
Disney Executive Chairman Bob Iger also resigned from a California task
force on reopening businesses during the coronavirus pandemic, the
Sacramento Bee newspaper reported late on Thursday. No reason was given
and Disney did not respond to requests for comment.
Earlier this week, Disney said the continued closure of Disneyland had
exacerbated the financial strain on its parks division from the
pandemic. The company, which is in the process of laying off 28,000
employees, has urged California to let Disneyland reopen.
On Thursday, a trade group that represents Disneyland, Comcast Corp's <CMCSA.O>
Universal Studios and others, said it had reviewed California's draft
guidelines and then asked the state to hear more recommendations from
the industry.
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Coalition of Resort Labor Unions representing Disney cast members
stage a car caravan outside Disneyland California, calling for
higher safety standards for Disneyland to reopen during the global
outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Anaheim,
California, U.S., June 27, 2020. REUTERS/Mike Blake/
On Friday, Dr. Mark Ghaly, California's health secretary, said he would continue
talks with theme park operators.
"Given the size and operational complexities of these unique sectors, we are
seeking additional input from health, workforce and business stakeholders to
finalize this important framework - all leading with science and safety," Ghaly
said in a statement.
Disneyland has been closed since March. The company had announced the resort
would reopen on July 17 but later delayed the move indefinitely, saying it had
to wait for the state's guidance.
All other Disney theme parks, including Walt Disney World in Florida, have
reopened with limited attendance, mask requirements and other safety measures.
(Reporting by Lisa Richwine, Editing by Rosalba O'Brien)
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