WASHINGTON, D.C. – March 27, 2026 – INCOMPAS, the competitive communications and AI infrastructure association, released the following statement after the Supreme Court ruled in favor of Cox in Cox v. Sony.
Earlier this week, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of Cox in a case concerning allegations of music piracy and the failure to terminate the accounts of alleged repeat infringers. In the majority opinion, the Court determined that an internet service provider (ISP) cannot be held liable for user copyright infringement simply for not terminating the access of known repeat offenders. The Court explained that contributory liability necessitates proving a specific intent to infringe, such as actively encouraging infringement or designing a service specifically for that goal.
The following statement can be attributed to Chip Pickering, INCOMPAS CEO:
“INCOMPAS applauds the Supreme Court for its decision, which provides a critical safeguard for the competitive broadband industry and the consumers who rely on our networks. This ruling sends a clear message to Congress to reject heavy-handed mandates that would force broadband providers to police the internet, including dangerous proposals to compel blocking various content. Such mandates not only threaten the technical stability and security of our networks but also run counter to America’s strong tradition of free expression and an open internet. By rejecting boundless liability for network providers, the Court has ensured that competitive ISPs can continue investing their time and resources into deploying next-generation broadband rather than fighting frivolous, enterprise-ending litigation.”
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