FCC asks judge to dismiss Disney lawsuit

The Federal Communications Commission has asked a federal judge to dismiss a lawsuit filed by Disney and ABC, arguing that the broadcaster's legal challenge is premature and hinders an ongoing investigation into allegations of unlawful discrimination. The FCC's filing on Thursday, September 3, 2026, contends that the agency has not yet made any enforcement decisions, and halting the review process now would impede its ability to fully investigate the claims. The legal dispute began in August 2026 when Disney and ABC sued the FCC, alleging that the agency's order for an early review of broadcast licenses for eight ABC-owned stations constituted a retaliatory campaign and an infringement on their First Amendment rights. These license renewals would not ordinarily have been due until 2028 or later. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr initiated the early reviews in April 2026, citing an investigation into whether Disney and ABC engaged in prohibited discrimination. In its motion to dismiss, the FCC asserted that the license renewal process is ongoing and does not affect the plaintiffs' rights, as licensees with pending applications are permitted to continue operating without interruption.