Broadcasting associations representing all 50 U.S. states, as well as the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, have jointly adopted two resolutions aimed at supporting local radio services. The resolutions urge lawmakers to protect AM radio in vehicles and reject the introduction of new performance fees on local stations.
The first resolution calls on members of Congress to support the Local Radio Freedom Act, which opposes any new performance tax on radio broadcasters. U.S. stations currently provide local news, weather, sports and entertainment free to listeners, but broadcasters argue that additional fees, on top of existing copyright and streaming costs, would compromise their ability to continue doing so.
The second resolution supports the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act, which would mandate the inclusion of AM radio receivers in all new vehicles sold in the U.S. AM radio plays a critical role in the U.S. Emergency Alert System, particularly during natural disasters and other emergencies when other communication platforms may fail.
Curtis LeGeyt, president and CEO of the National Association of Broadcasters, said support for local radio remains strong following the recent State Leadership Conference in Washington, D.C., where more than 560 local radio and TV broadcasters met with members of Congress.
“State broadcaster associations play a pivotal role in our advocacy efforts, and I am proud to see the collective unity behind these resolutions,” he said.
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