Bob Chapek confirms Disney is actively pursuing increased attendance and milder restrictions at its theme parks in light of today's COVID-19 policy changes.
UPDATE 5/14: Effective Saturday, May 15, facial coverings will no longer be required at Disney parks and resorts. Details inside.
The Centers for Disease Control today updated its COVID-19 guidance to reflect the position that those who have been fully vaccinated are no longer required to wear masks in most settings, either outdoors or indoors. Recent data coming out of the Cleveland Clinic indicates that fewer than 1% of individuals hospitalized for COVID-19 since January 1, 2021 were vaccinated.
President Joe Biden praised the move as "a great day for America" and encouraged all citizens to "get vaccinated--or wear a mask until you do."
The CDC currently defines individuals as "fully vaccinated" 14 days after receiving the second dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, or 14 days after the single dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine.
During today's investor call, Disney CEO Bob Chapek confirmed that even before this announcement, there have been conversations with Orange County aimed at increasing park capacity and adjusting safety protocols. Speaking on the topic of wearing masks in the summer heat, Chapek stated that "we think that's going to make for an even more pleasant experience and we believe that as we're now bringing back a lot of people back to work, that it's going to be an even bigger catalyst for growth in attendance."
For the second quarter of fiscal 2021 (January - March), Disney reported year-over-year nearly $2.5 billion decline in profit and $1.1 billion operating income decline in the Parks, Experiences and Products segment.
Effective Saturday, May 15, Disney has eliminated the need to wear facial coverings in outdoor common areas and pool decks. Masks must still be worn in all attractions and queues, theaters and other indoor locations including shops and restaurants, except when eating and drinking. Masks are also required on Disney transportation including buses and monorails.
Complete details on the updated policies are available here: https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/experience-updates/#drawer-card-faceCoverings
