Disney has announced that it will furlough non-union workers and stop collecting payments for its annual park passes.
“Disney employees have received full pay and benefits during this time, and we’ve committed to paying them through April 18, for a total of five additional weeks of compensation,” the company said in a statement Thursday. “However, with no clear indication of when we can restart our businesses, we’re forced to make the difficult decision to take the next step and furlough employees whose jobs aren’t necessary at this time.”
Disney also shared that those employees that are deemed crucial to maintaining current operations while the parks are closed will remain on the job.
The furloughed workers would remain employees of the company and keep their health and education benefits, while also being able to access federal and state aid like unemployment benefits. Disney will pay the cost of employee and company premiums.
According to Disney, those furloughed are eligible for $600 per week because of the $2 trillion economic stimulus bill, as well as state unemployment benefits.
Disney has made changes to its annual pass-holder plans amid the COVID-19 crisis. Those who have paid for their annual pass in full, their passes will be extended by the number of days Disney is closed, and those on monthly payment plans, Disney is ceasing all future payments and refund any payments made between March 14 and April 4.
