Barrasso, Hassan Introduce Bipartisan Local Radio Freedom Act

U.S. Senators John Barrasso and Maggie Hassan of New Hampshire introduced the “Local Radio Freedom Act”. The bipartisan resolution declares that Congress should not impose new taxes or fees on locally owned radio stations. According to information from Senator Barrasso’s office, the resolution also underscores the critical importance of locally owned radio stations to families, small businesses and our communities.

Senator Barrasso said people across Wyoming depend on local radio stations for timely information, news and programming that impact their daily lives. The Senator added that for decades, radio stations and the recording industry have enjoyed a mutually beneficial relationship; free airplay for free promotion and if forced to pay a performance royalty, broadcasters will have to make cuts to important programming to make ends meet.

Wyoming Association of Broadcasters President Laura Grott expressed gratitude for the support from the Wyoming Delegation and to Senator Barrasso for taking the lead on this important resolution that helps protect local broadcasters from being imposed an additional fee to record labels and artists when they play their music. The legislation is supported by the Wyoming Association of Broadcasters and the National Association of Broadcasters.