A group of state attorneys general asks a federal court to temporarily halt Paramount’s proposed merger with Warner Bros. Discovery while the states’ antitrust case proceeds. Multiple outlets report that the attorneys general filed an emergency request seeking a temporary restraining order and, if granted, a preliminary injunction. The motion asks the court to pause the transaction to prevent the companies from closing while the lawsuit is pending.
The hearing is scheduled for Friday before U.S. District Judge P. Casey. The filings argue that the companies could complete the deal relatively soon, with one reported timeline indicating closing could occur as early as July 22. The states’ request is framed as a way to preserve the status quo and ensure the antitrust claims are not rendered moot by a completed merger.
The outlets also note that the July 22 period aligns with expected regulatory developments, including an anticipated European Union decision on the transaction. The court’s upcoming consideration will focus on whether interim relief is warranted as the states continue litigating their antitrust challenge.
