I don't know who handles VS in MCO, but if it is DL, who do handle VS in other US locations, it won't have anything to do with union rules as the ground crews are not unionised in most cities.
Well I guess the Capt/crew are misinformed as that's what they told us. Handling is by Alliance Ground Int'l I believe.
Even in Mickey's parks there were warnings that lightning can strike up to 10 miles from the core of the storm. For me the daily lightning shows just made the holiday a bit more interesting!