LAWMAKERS OPPOSE FEE ON LOCAL RADIO STATIONS

— Local Radio Freedom Act gains eight new co-sponsors; recognizes radio airplay’s promotional value — WASHINGTON, DC — The Local Radio Freedom Act, introduced in late October by Reps. Gene Green (D-TX) and Mike Conaway (R-TX) is now backed by 127 members of the House of Representatives. “Congress should not impose any new performance fee, tax, royalty, or other charge relating to the public performance of sound recordings on a local radio station for broadcasting sound recordings over-the-air, or on any business for such public performance of sound recordings,” read House Concurrent Resolution 244. Eight lawmakers recently added their support for the Local Radio Freedom Act, including Reps.

Nancy Boyda (D-KS), Ken Calvert (R-CA), Phil Hare (D-IL), Stephanie Tubbs Jones (D-OH), Steve Kagen (D-WI), Rick Larsen (D-WA), John Lewis (D-GA) and David Scott (D-GA). As of December 18, the following 127 lawmakers have expressed support for the resolution.