As the top regulator of media, the FCC has the legal authority to interpret Section 230, and Carr could reportedly erode or dispense with the shield entirely by issuing an advisory opinion. The courts would then have to decide whether to use his guidance as they decide Section 230 cases.
An advisory opinion from Carr could also mean that defamation cases against Big Tech companies that would have previously been dismissed could move forward in the court system, potentially leading to settlements due to the high cost of litigation.