Issa Introduces Performance Royalty Legislation

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, April 5, 2017

Rep. Darrell Issa (R-CA), Chairman of the House Judiciary Subcommittee for Courts, Intellectual Property and the Internet along with Rep. Ted Deutch (D-FL) have introduced legislation aimed at obtaining royalties for broadcast airplay. The Performance Royalty Owners of Music Opportunity To Earn Act of 2017 (PROMOTE Act) would allow performing artists to opt out of having their music played by broadcast radio if the performing artist is not being paid an agreed-upon performance royalty.

Rep. Issa said, "Our bill puts forward a workable solution that would allow those who would otherwise be paid a performance right to opt out of allowing broadcasters to play their music if they feel they're not being appropriately compensated. This is a win-win that helps solve this decades' long problem in a way that's fair to both parties."

NAB Executive VP/Communications Dennis Wharton said in a statement, "NAB has significant concerns with this legislation that would upend the music licensing framework that currently enables broadcasters to serve local communities across the country, and would result in less music being played on the radio to the detriment of listeners and artists. NAB thanks the almost 200 Members of Congress who support the Local Radio Freedom Act and recognize the tremendous benefits of free, promotional airplay for musicians and labels."