Disneyland workers authorize possible strike ahead of continued contract negotiations

Candy maker Daisy Molina and other Disney union members hand out buttons and ask visitors to sign a petition in support of their fight for a contract with the theme park company outside the Harbor Boulevard entrance, Monday, July 1, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. (Jeff Gritchen/The Orange County Register via AP)

NEW YORK (AP) — Thousands of workers at Disney’s theme parks and resorts in California voted Friday night to declare a strike as contract negotiations continue.

The strike authorization was approved by an overwhelming majority, nearly 99 percent of members who cast ballots, according to a union statement. The election was conducted by a coalition of four unions, representing 14,000 Disney ride operators, store clerks, janitors, candy makers, ticket takers, parking attendants and other workers.

Union leaders now have the option to call a strike if they are unable to negotiate a new contract deal with Disney. Leaders from both sides will return to the negotiating table starting Monday.

Since April, union members have been in talks with Disney over wage increases, safety measures, attendance policies and other benefits.