GAC?

[meem]

Can someone tell me what this is?

 

[SueM in MN]

Hi and welcome to our Board.
A Guest Assistance Card is a card that you can request at Guest Services at any of the parks if you have a disability that causes problems with waiting in lines. It isn't meant to (and usually won't) shorten your wait in line, but, for example, if you can't be in the sun, a GAC might allow you to wait somewhere out of the sun. Another possibility is allowing someone who doesn't have a wheelchair to use the wheelchair entrance to avoid steps. Or allow a child to use a stroller as a wheelchair.
If you have a wheelchair or ecv, you usually won't need a GAC. Just having the wheelchair allows you to use the wheelchair entrances.

 

[meem]

Thank you Sue!

 

[s&k'smom]

Just an FYI, when I was talking to CRO last week (I'm arranging a surprise for DH) the fabulous CM told me to make sure you get a GAC (for my DS). But the interesting thing was she asked me was I bringing any info with me. I told her that I was going to bring his latest report. I wonder if they are cracking down? I think she was just making sure I had the info. She even put me on hold to check with her supervisor on my room request. All you have to do is go to City Hall in MK.

 

[JudithM]

When I went to the Disney Studios earlier this month to get a GAC, I did have my GAC from our previous trip. The CM took it backstage & brought me out a new one. I asked about the old one, & she said they keep it. For my personal security, I don't like that, but I wasn't thinking fast enough at that time. Next time I will not necessarily turn over an old (dated) GAC. I prefer to destroy it myself.

In all the times I have gotten GACs over the last year & a half, no one has ever mentioned anything about proof of any type. Interesting though because I was talking to a coworker just last week about his getting a GAC on his family's upcoming trip. Someone mentioned he should get a note from the doctor & I said it wasn't necessary. He can always show his incision - he is a heart transplant recipient.

 

[meem]

Maybe we'll do that with my grandson, lol. Lift his shirt and show his 'zipper'

 

[Michigan]

They can't ask for proof of a disability it's against the ADA to do so.

 

[meem]

I didn't know that.

 

[SueM in MN]

I recently did some checking about "proof of disability" for a policy about disability assistance animals, which also comes under the ADA. They can ask what sort of assistance the animal is trained to provide, but they can't ask about the nature of the disability, other than asking what type of assistance is needed. I think it's the same way for many of the other provisions of the ADA (I do know parking is different).
It would be discriminatory to require written proof. Only those people who knew ahead of time and were able to get a note from their doctor would be able to get a GAC. Some people might end up having to pay for a doctor visit just to get a note. None of those things would be fair.
It could be that someone is just being a little more picky about handing out GACS. I don't think their policy has actually changed. It might be safer to bring some proof if you have it, but I wouldn't sweat it if you don't.

 

[s&k'smom]

Oh now that's some interesting info. I'm gonna bring something with me anyway. Thanks!