Overview
- The National Labor Relations Board, which issued its decision on July 22, found that Discovery Cove unlawfully refused to bargain with divers who voted to unionize and withheld requested bargaining information.
- The board directed Discovery Cove to recognize the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 30, produce wage histories and performance review procedures, bargain in good faith, and post a notice in staff areas for 60 consecutive days starting within 14 days.
- The affected workers are divers and dive technicians who voted unanimously in 2025 to join Local 30 and who perform behind‑the‑scenes maintenance of the park’s aquatic habitats.
- Discovery Cove and parent United Parks & Resorts have not publicly responded to the ruling, and park operations for guests remain unchanged.
- Bargaining must now begin under NLRB oversight, and the speed of compliance with information requests will shape how quickly workers can negotiate pay and workplace rules and could influence union efforts across the Orlando parks.