Story perspectives

Supreme Court to Decide FCC's Authority on Location Data Fines

1/10/2026

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Supreme Court will hear a case challenging the FCC's authority to fine wireless carriers such as AT&T Inc. and Verizon Communications Inc. for sharing customer location data without consent.
The fines total over $200 million, which the carriers say violate their constitutional right to a jury trial.
The case follows conflicting rulings from federal appellate courts about the FCC's enforcement powers and could redefine the agency's regulatory reach.

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Story summary

The U.S. Supreme Court will hear a case challenging the FCC's authority to fine wireless carriers such as AT&T Inc. and Verizon Communications Inc. for sharing customer location data without consent.
The fines total over $200 million, which the carriers say violate their constitutional right to a jury trial.
The case follows conflicting rulings from federal appellate courts about the FCC's enforcement powers and could redefine the agency's regulatory reach.