Disneyland and its actors’ union, Magic United, are in the midst of negotiations for a first contract. The union represents 1,700 parade, show, and character cast members at Disneyland. The two sides are disagreeing over how to characterize Disney’s proposals, with the union claiming that Disney is trying to eliminate paid parental leave and cut benefits.

Contract Negotiations

The union argues that Disney’s proposals would effectively mean that employees lose benefits such as paid parental leave. Disney, on the other hand, claims that it is negotiating the initial terms of employment and that the union is mischaracterizing its proposals. The company says it has proposed wage increases over the term of the agreement and has continued to provide annual increases to the bargaining unit as negotiations progress.

A representative for the union stated that Disneyland is often presented as a family-friendly destination, but that this is no longer the case for the 1,700 cast members in the characters and parades departments. The representative claimed that Disney has proposed eliminating paid parental leave, cutting the number of paid holidays, and reducing 401(k) contributions.

Response from Disney

Disney has contested these claims, with a spokesperson saying that the company values its cast members and offers competitive benefits. The company also noted that there appears to be some confusion in the comparison to Walt Disney World in Florida, where there are no state disability payments for parental leave like those provided in California.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.