This resolution supports the Local Radio Freedom Act, opposing any new performance fees on local radio stations for broadcasting sound recordings, arguing it would harm the mutually beneficial relationship between the radio and recording industries, and negatively impact local radio's community services. It prohibits Congress from imposing new charges on local radio stations or businesses for playing local radio broadcasts.
John Barrasso
Senator
WY
This resolution supports the Local Radio Freedom Act, opposing any new performance fees on local radio stations for playing music. It emphasizes the mutually beneficial relationship between the radio and recording industries, where radio provides free publicity and essential local services. The resolution warns that new fees would harm local radio stations, small businesses, and the communities they serve. Ultimately, it asserts that Congress should not impose any new charges on local radio for broadcasting sound recordings.
Congress Says 'No Way' to New Fees on Local Radio: Local Radio Freedom Act Gets Backing
Congress is pushing back against any new performance fees for local radio stations with the Local Radio Freedom Act. This resolution makes it clear: no new taxes, royalties, or other charges should be slapped on stations for playing music over the air, or on businesses for playing the radio.
Keeping the Airwaves Free
The resolution emphasizes that Congress has consistently rejected performance fees on local radio. Why? Because it would mess with the long-standing, mutually beneficial relationship between broadcasters and the recording industry. Think of it this way: radio stations give artists free publicity, boosting music sales, concert tickets, and merch. Adding fees could disrupt this balance.
Local Radio's Ripple Effect
Local radio isn't just about music. It's also a key source for local news, weather updates, public affairs programming, and even play-by-play sports coverage. The resolution points out that a new performance fee could create "economic hardship" for many stations, especially smaller ones and the businesses that advertise with them (Section 1). This, in turn, could hurt listeners who rely on free, local broadcasts. For example, a local bakery that uses radio ads to bring in customers might have to cut back on advertising if stations are forced to raise rates to cover new fees. Or a construction worker who relies on their truck radio for traffic and weather might find their favorite station cutting back on those essential services, or worse, getting priced out of business.
The Bottom Line
This resolution argues that since the current system is working well for broadcasting, music, and sound recording, a new performance fee isn't justified (Section 1). Basically, Congress is saying, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it." The resolution protects local radio, the businesses that use it, and the people that tune in.