In a united effort to safeguard local radio’s future and its crucial role in community service, broadcasters from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico have rallied to adopt two significant resolutions during a pivotal conference in Washington, DC.
The first resolution supports the Local Radio Freedom Act (LRFA), which calls on Congress to oppose any new performance fees for local radio stations. The LRFA highlights the integral role these stations play in delivering free, trusted news and entertainment, underlining the financial burdens they already shoulder with existing copyright and streaming fees. Advocates argue that new performance taxes could severely undermine local stations’ ability to serve their communities effectively.
In parallel, the second resolution champions the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act, ensuring AM radio’s continued presence in new vehicles. This act is crucial for maintaining AM radio’s role as the backbone of the nation’s Emergency Alert System, which provides lifesaving information during crises when other communication forms might fail. The resolution emphasizes AM radio’s reach and resilience, particularly vital in rural and underrepresented communities, and argues against the removal of AM radio from vehicles, citing its importance for public safety.
The conference, which saw over 560 local TV and radio broadcasters convene to engage with lawmakers, has fortified congressional support for local radio. Curtis LeGeyt, President and CEO of the National Association of Broadcasters, commended the state broadcasters’ associations for their unified stance and pivotal role in these advocacy efforts.
As the debate over these legislative measures continues, the broadcasting community remains steadfast in its commitment to ensure that local radio continues to be a reliable and accessible resource for all Americans, particularly in times of need.
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