On April 2, it was announced that all U.S.-based executives, salaried and non-union hourly employees of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products would be furloughed starting April 19 due to extended park closures caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, given that union employees were excluded, negotiations since have been underway for weeks. Now, the Service Trades Council Union Coalition, which represents about 43,000 employees across Walt Disney World Resort, has reached an agreement with Disney, confirming that the furlough will be effective for its union members starting April 19.
The Service Trades Council Union is comprised of six local unions, representing roughly 43,000 employees in a variety of roles across Walt Disney World, from character performers to attraction operations, resort housekeeping, custodial, vacation planners, lifeguards, bus drivers, and more. The union has reached an agreement with Disney that will maintain their members’ health insurance benefits coverage, educational support, and additional employee assistance programs for up to 12 months during the temporary furlough. Additional terms are in place for job protection and seniority within roles.
Below is the full furlough agreement between Walt Disney World Resort and the Service Trades Council Union:
You can find the PDF for the agreement below by clicking here.
Over at Disneyland, resort leadership is still in talks with union leaders about the furloughing of union staff as well. Essential Cast Members that continue to work at Walt Disney World throughout the pandemic are now allowed to wear face masks to help curb the spread of COVID-19.