ABC objects to ‘unlawful’ early license renewal for television stations ABC Network has filed for early license renewals for its eight television stations, a move mandated by the FCC, but is simultaneously objecting to the order as unlawful and unconstitutional. The company claims the FCC’s demand, issued years before scheduled expirations, lacks legitimate purpose and is an attempt to suppress speech, particularly after controversial remarks by host Jimmy Kimmel. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr maintains the action is based on an investigation into Disney’s diversity policies and that ABC’s responses were inadequate.

• ABC Network has filed early license renewal applications for its eight television stations in compliance with an FCC demand.
• The network is objecting to the FCC’s April 28 order for early renewals, labeling it ‘unlawful, arbitrary, and unconstitutional’.
• ABC argues the order has no legitimate purpose and is a threat to the First Amendment, potentially suppressing speech.
• The company suggests the timing of the order, shortly after calls for Jimmy Kimmel’s firing, indicates retaliatory intent.
• FCC Chairman Brendan Carr states the decision stems from a yearlong investigation into Disney’s alleged discriminatory hiring practices.
• The FCC is also targeting ‘The View’ for violating the equal time rule concerning political candidate interviews.