ABC, Disney Sue FCC Over Early Broadcast License Reviews
ABC, along with its parent company Disney and eight of its owned stations, has filed a lawsuit against the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The lawsuit, which cites First Amendment rights, challenges the FCC's decision to conduct early reviews of ABC's…
Indianapolis, IN, August 18, 2026 —
ABC, its parent company Disney, and eight of its affiliated stations have initiated a lawsuit against the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The legal action challenges the FCC’s recent decision to perform early reviews of ABC’s broadcast licenses.
The lawsuit, filed by the broadcasting company, asserts that these early reviews constitute an infringement upon First Amendment rights. ABC argues that the FCC’s move poses a significant and potentially existential threat to the network’s operations.
Furthermore, ABC alleges that the FCC’s decision to conduct these reviews early is a retaliatory measure. The network contends that this action is in response to its news coverage and programming that has been critical of the Trump administration.
The specific details regarding the exact timing of the FCC’s decision and the filing of the lawsuit were not immediately available. The outcome of this legal challenge could have significant implications for broadcast license renewals and the relationship between media organizations and regulatory bodies.
Story summarized from the original created by JOCELYN NOVECK, AP National Writer on www.wrtv.com, see more information here.
