When people buy CDs, the record companies and the licensing companies are supposed to pay royalties to the artists. In addition, radio stations pay blanket license fees to BMI, ASCAP, and SESAC to air CDs, money that is supposed to end up in the artists’ pockets. But now, the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) is trying to levy a new performance tax on radio stations, and Congress is currently debating the issue. WCLV in Cleveland is asking its listeners to write to their members of Congress.
performance tax
Does Congress Hate Music?
Wow. It’s a rapidly shifting landscape in Congress, but this is the kind of thing that’s coming out. From the NEA:
Sen. Tom Coburn (R-OK) has introduced an amendment to prohibit any funds in the economic stimulus bill from going to museums, theaters, arts centers, for renovations, construction or salaries, in a list of others including casinos, golf courses, stadiums, and aquariums.