From staff reports

HARRISBURG — Attorney General Dave Sunday has joined a multistate lawsuit challenging Nexstar Media Group’s acquisition of TEGNA, arguing the merger would reduce competition and raise costs for consumers.

The lawsuit alleges the deal would create the nation’s largest broadcast station group and limit local television options in markets where both companies operate, including central and northeastern Pennsylvania.

“Pennsylvanians have been declaring that enough is enough when it comes to rising TV service subscription costs,” Sunday said, adding the merger could further strain household budgets.

Federal regulators approved the transaction in March, but a judge has ordered a pause on combining assets while litigation continues.

Pennsylvania is part of a coalition of states seeking to block or unwind the merger.