House Opposition to Airplay Royalties Climbs to 237
| RADIO ONLINE | , , | :am CT |
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Five additional House members now oppose the Performance Rights Act, proposed legislation that aims to levy royalties on local radio for airplay. Currently, a bipartisan group of 237 House lawmakers have signed on as co-sponsors to the Local Radio Freedom Act, a resolution opposing the imposition of "any new performance fee, tax, royalty or other charge" on radio for music airplay.
Support for the Local Radio Freedom Act has now surpassed last year's support by 10 lawmakers, indicating growing Congressional opposition for the record label-led campaign. Adding their support are Reps. Christopher Carney (PA-10), Mike Coffman (CO-6), Scott Garrett (NJ-5), Charlie Melancon (LA-3) and Frank Wolf (VA-10).
"NAB salutes these members of Congress for recognizing the important role played by radio stations across America. From promoting music to providing airtime for important public service initiatives, radio broadcasters reach an unparalleled audience of 235 million listeners every week," said NAB Executive VP Dennis Wharton. "While the growing bipartisan opposition to RIAA's performance tax campaign is certainly welcome news, we are encouraging radio broadcasters to remain steadfast and continue educating lawmakers on this important issue."
