Background:
In 2018, Anaheim voters approved Measure L, a living wage ordinance requiring resort businesses benefiting from city tax subsidies to pay employees a minimum wage starting at $15 per hour, with scheduled increases. Disneyland workers alleged that Disney did not comply with this ordinance, leading to a lawsuit filed in 2019.
Settlement Details:
• Amount: $233 million, covering back pay with interest, penalties, and other fees.
• Beneficiaries: Over 50,000 current and former Disneyland employees.
• Timeframe: Compensation covers wages owed from January 1, 2019, when Measure L took effect, until Disney adjusted wages in 2023.
A California state judge is scheduled to review the settlement on January 17, 2025. If approved, affected employees will be notified of their individual compensation amounts.
Current Wage Status:
As of October 2023, following the final court ruling, Disney increased wages to meet Measure L requirements. In July 2024, Disney negotiated an agreement with unionized workers to raise the minimum hourly rate to $24, exceeding the Measure L requirement of $19.90.
Statements:
• Disneyland Spokesperson: “We are pleased that this matter is nearing resolution. Currently, all cast members make at least the Measure L requirement of $19.90 per hour, and, in fact, 95% of them make more.”
• Workers’ Attorney: “What we believe is the largest wage and hour … .”
This settlement underscores the importance of adhering to local wage laws and reflects ongoing efforts to ensure fair compensation for employees in the entertainment and hospitality industries.
