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Board backs state attorney general in challenge to Paramount‑Warner merger, citing threat to local film jobs
Summary
Supervisors voted to support California Attorney General Rob Bonta's lawsuit against the proposed Paramount‑Warner merger, authorizing County Counsel to coordinate with the AG’s office and explore legal avenues to protect entertainment industry jobs in Los Angeles County.
The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors on July 21 voted to back legal action challenging the proposed Paramount‑Warner merger, citing potential harm to the county’s entertainment economy and the thousands of jobs tied to film and television production.
Supervisor Lindsey Horvath introduced the motion, saying the industry "is one of the defining pillars of our local economy" and urging the county to support the state's effort. The motion authorizes County Counsel to work with the attorney general on all appropriate legal options — including filing amicus briefs, providing declarations and offering the county's economic analysis.
Supervisor Catherine Barger offered and the board accepted a friendly amendment asking County Counsel to investigate all legal options available to the county in addition to supporting the state's case. Supporters argued consolidation threatens local productions, union jobs and the many small businesses that serve production activity.
The motion passed by roll call with recorded ayes from supervisors present. Supervisor Horvath called the step "about protecting jobs," and noted the board would continue to evaluate additional options to safeguard the county's entertainment sector.
Next steps: County Counsel was directed to coordinate with the California Attorney General and report back on potential legal filings and the county’s options.
