Jail Time Now Possible for Disney Tourists Under New Florida Measure

Those traveling from their state to Florida and heading to Disney World in July need to know this new Florida law that will take effect in eleven days.

New Florida Law Taking Effect July 1 Could Disrupt Your Upcoming Disney Vacation (If You’re Not Careful)

The sun was barely up when Lisa and her family packed their SUV in Georgia, eager for a magical week at Walt Disney World. The kids wore Mickey ears, snacks were prepped, and the road trip playlist was queued. But just three hours into the drive, a lead foot and a speed trap nearly turned the family vacation into a courtroom drama.

Could a brief lapse in judgment now mean jail time for tourists and locals alike?

Starting July 1, 2025, a controversial new Florida law aims to deliver harsh consequences to drivers clocked at 50 miles per hour over the posted speed limit or going 100+ mph—a scenario not unheard of on long, open stretches of I-75 or I-4, roads often taken by out-of-state Disney World visitors or Central Florida commuters.

The Law That’s Turning Heads

Signed by Governor Ron DeSantis, the new legislation introduces strict penalties for extreme speeders:

• First-time offenders: Up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine

• Repeat offenders: Up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine

“It’s a life-saving measure,” said State Sen. Jason Pizzo, who championed the bill. His motivation? A tragic and personal story: an 11-year-old boy named Anthony was killed by a reckless driver going 85 mph with no headlights and no insurance. The driver only paid an $85 ticket.

“One of the things we can control is how many people get killed on the roadways,” Pizzo told lawmakers.

But Is It Too Much?

While safety advocates are praising the bill, critics argue that it’s too aggressive and constitutionally overbroad.

“It’s going to clog our court systems,” warned State Rep. Mike Gottlieb, a Democrat who believes the bill lacks clear enforcement guidelines and could unfairly punish drivers who made a split-second decision.

The debate raises questions for millions of drivers—especially the countless families who drive to Florida’s theme parks each year. How will this law affect vacationers who simply miss a speed limit sign or accelerate to pass a slow-moving vehicle?

Why This Matters to Disney Travelers and Florida Locals

Whether you’re coming from Georgia, the Carolinas, or even South Florida, most roads to Walt Disney World include highways notorious for speeding enforcement, like I-4 and the Florida Turnpike. Tourists unfamiliar with local speed traps, variable speed zones, or construction areas could find themselves facing jail time for speeding without even realizing it.

And for Florida locals—particularly those commuting from cities like Tampa or Jacksonville—this law could add new stress to daily routines. A single speeding ticket could now carry life-changing consequences, from jail time to court appearances, even for non-criminals simply running late.

What Drivers Should Do Now Before Heading to Disney World

With the new law starting on July 1, 2025, travelers and residents alike are urged to:

• Use GPS apps that alert you to speed limits and traffic cameras

• Avoid aggressive acceleration, even when passing

• Stay informed of local and state road laws

• Leave early for trips to allow buffer time

Disney may be the most magical place on Earth—but the journey there just got more serious. So whether you’re a family chasing fireworks or a local heading to work, be mindful: this summer, speeding through Florida could cost more than you ever imagined.

Is your next trip to the magic worth a day in jail?