Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath introduced a motion Tuesday calling for a comprehensive economic impact study of Paramount Skydance's proposed acquisition of Warner Bros., with a hearing scheduled for March 17.
The motion directs the County's Department of Economic Opportunity to assess potential effects on the workforce and develop an action plan to support entertainment industry workers.
"The entertainment industry is once again facing a merger that could hurt competition, limit the diversity of storytellers, and send ripple effects across our signature industry," Horvath said.
The motion authorizes County Counsel to submit formal comments to the U.S. Department of Justice regarding antitrust concerns and monitor related actions by state attorneys general. It also directs DEO to leverage workforce programs, including High Road Training Partnership, to provide job training and placement opportunities.
Paramount Skydance's proposed $111 billion acquisition of Warner Bros., including the studio, HBO and CNN, raises concerns due to debt load and historical precedent of layoffs following major studio mergers.
Edited by SMDP Staff