WASHINGTON, D.C. -- In response to the Department of Justice opening a review of the consent decrees governing the process in which performance rights organizations ASCAP and BMI license music, the following statement can be attributed to NAB President and CEO Gordon Smith:
“Broadcasters welcome the opportunity to participate in the Justice Department’s review of the music antitrust consent decrees, and appreciate that the tone of DOJ’s inquiry recognizes the ongoing importance of this antitrust framework.
"For decades, these BMI and ASCAP antitrust consent decrees have ensured a fair and efficient licensing of musical works to local radio and TV stations. The decrees benefit songwriters, broadcasters, music licensees, and music listeners. Absent broader legislative reforms, their preservation is essential to a fully functional music marketplace.”
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