WASHINGTON, DC -- In response to a deal between NAB and ASCAP and BMI to resolve broadcast concerns with the Music Modernization Act, the following statement can be attributed to NAB President & CEO Gordon Smith, ASCAP CEO Elizabeth Matthews and BMI President & CEO Mike O’Neill:
“We are extremely happy to announce that the NAB, ASCAP and BMI have reached an agreement regarding the Music Modernization Act. This agreement resolves NAB’s concerns with the potential introduction of new evidence into the ratesetting process while preserving ASCAP’s and BMI’s ability to seek meaningful compensation from the growing digital music marketplace. Our three organizations have enjoyed a long, unique and successful relationship, and as a result, we were able to work together to find a path forward on this important legislation that is fair to all parties. We greatly appreciate the support of the bill’s sponsors, in particular Representatives Doug Collins (R-GA) and Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY), and Senators Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Lamar Alexander (R-TN), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Chris Coons (D-DE), for their leadership in facilitating this agreement and advancing important music licensing reforms."
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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. Through advocacy, education
and innovation, NAB enables broadcasters to best serve their communities,
strengthen their businesses and seize new opportunities in the digital
age. Learn more at www.nab.org.