Paramount Global proposes a November trial date for antitrust lawsuit while state attorneys general seek an April start.
Paramount Global has requested a November trial date to resolve the antitrust lawsuit brought by a dozen state attorneys general and the Writers Guild of America. The company argues that a November start is sufficient for both sides to conduct discovery and prepare for the evidence, noting that a delay until April would be a mere stonewalling tactic. California Attorney General Rob Bonta, leading the 12-state coalition, countered that an April start is necessary to thoroughly review the merger's impact on consumers and the quality of programs. The state attorneys general argue that the current discovery is insufficient, particularly regarding post-closing integration plans and third-party depositions. Paramount Global maintains that the transaction is lawful and pro-competitive. However, the company faces a penalty of approximately $7 million per day for every day the merger remains unclosed after September 30. This delay in scheduling puts the user of the merger at risk of significant costs, while the state plaintiffs argue that an April trial would still allow the judge to rule by the June 2027 deadline set by Paramount.