Congress Introduces AM-FM Act to Revise Copyright Law for Terrestrial Radio (US)

[MrFredPFL]

Story : https://variety.com/2019/biz/news/congress-am-fm-act-copyright-law-terrestrial-r

Senator Marsha Blackburn and Rep. Jerrold Nadler today introduced the Ask Musicians for Music Act (AM-FM), which aims to revise existing copyright law for radio stations and musicians.

Under the current copyright system, radio stations can use sound recordings over their airwaves without paying royalties to creators who own a stake in the sound recordings. The AM-FM Act would require all radio services to pay fair-market value for the music they use.

Many industry organizations have long lobbied for changes in the law, which has been even more strenuously opposed by the National Assocation of Broadcasters and radio lobbying groups.

“When music creators share their wonderful gift with the world, we hear songs that inspire and unite us. We should encourage such thriving talent and ensure the music community is properly compensated for their work,” said Senator Blackburn, who introduced the bill in the Senate. “The AM-FM Act will reward singers, songwriters and musicians for their hard work when their music is played on the radio.”