Over the past couple of years, the music industry has undergone significant changes. Among these developments is the bipartisan support for the Local Radio Freedom Act (LRFA). This resolution has been a key talking point, drawing a broad spectrum of supporters, including 94 original co-sponsors from the House of Representatives. The LRFA opposes “any new performance fee, tax, royalty, or other charge” on local broadcast radio stations, highlighting an ongoing debate around the extent of royalties for music airplay. With key sponsors and an array of backers, the act has been a focal point in discussions on the future of the music industry. Read on to discover more about the LRFA and the recent developments in the music industry.
Bipartisan Coalition Voices Support for Pro-Local Radio Resolution
In recent years, 94 Members of the House of Representatives signed on as original co-sponsors of a bipartisan resolution that opposes “any new performance fee, tax, royalty, or other charge” on local broadcast radio stations. The Local Radio Freedom Act (LRFA) signals Members of Congress’s opposition to any potential legislation that would impose new performance royalties on broadcast radio stations for music airplay.
Reps. Michael Conaway (R-TX) and Gene Green (D-TX) are the principal sponsors of the Local Radio Freedom Act (H. Con. Res. 17) in the House of Representatives. Sens. John Barrasso (R-WY) and Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND) are the principal sponsors of the companion resolution (S. Con. Res. 4) in the Senate that was introduced in the same period.
The Local Radio Freedom Act
“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,” reads the Local Radio Freedom Act.
Co-sponsors of the Local Radio Freedom Act
The 94 House co-sponsors of the Local Radio Freedom Act include:
Support from the NAB
The following quote can be attributed to NAB President and CEO Gordon Smith regarding the resolution:
“For decades, local radio airplay has jumpstarted and sustained the careers of countless musicians and record label moguls. Local radio’s unparalleled promotional value drives increased record and merchandise sales and sells out concert venues. NAB applauds lawmakers for standing with hometown broadcasters in opposing a job-killing performance royalty that would damage the No. 1 platform for exposing new music.”
About NAB
The National Association of Broadcasters is the premier advocacy association for America’s broadcasters. NAB advances radio and television interests in legislative, regulatory and public affairs.
