Disney Axes Spousal Coverage as Healthcare Costs Soar

Disney is making significant changes to its employee benefits in response to rising healthcare costs nationwide. Starting in 2027, the entertainment giant will no longer provide healthcare coverage for working spouses who have access to coverage through their own employers.

The decision affects approximately 172,000 US employees and represents a shift from incremental plan design changes towards structural eligibility decisions, according to benefits advisers.

Disney described the move as 'measured adjustments' and noted that children, other dependents, and dental and vision benefits remain unaffected. The company also plans to launch an employee stock purchase plan in 2027, pending regulatory approvals, and will double counseling sessions through its employee assistance program.