WASHINGTON, D.C. – The House has just passed the Orrin G. Hatch-Bob Goodlatte Music Modernization Act (MMA), sending the first reform of music copyright law in decades to the White House for President Trump's expected signature.
The MMA includes language that will formally establish a role for Congress as the Department of Justice reviews consent decrees with the two largest performing rights organizations — ASCAP and BMI — which collectively license over 90% of the musical works that are played on local radio and television stations. The following statement can be attributed to NAB President and CEO Gordon Smith:
"NAB is proud to stand with our friends from every corner of the music industry and applauds House passage of the Orrin G. Hatch-Bob Goodlatte Music Modernization Act. This critical legislation will benefit songwriters, legacy recording artists, producers, digital streaming services, and music listeners. The MMA is the culmination of a years-long process to find consensus solutions to music licensing problems. Its overwhelming support would not have been possible without the leadership of Representatives Collins and Jeffries, Senators Hatch, Whitehouse, Alexander and Coons, Chairmen Goodlatte and Grassley, and Ranking Members Nadler and Feinstein.
"We are particularly supportive of a provision in this legislation that ensures an enhanced congressional review of any DOJ changes to the ASCAP and BMI consent decrees. These decrees are essential to a functioning music marketplace, and any action to terminate them will now be preceded by appropriate Congressional oversight to protect the interests of songwriters, licensees, and consumers of music."
About 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.
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