A concurrent resolution supporting the Local Radio Freedom Act.

This concurrent resolution expresses strong support for the Local Radio Freedom Act, advocating that Congress should not impose any new performance fees, taxes, or royalties on local radio stations for broadcasting sound recordings over the air. It also extends this opposition to any business publicly performing sound recordings broadcast by a local radio station. The resolution asserts that such fees would disrupt the long-standing, mutually beneficial relationship between the broadcasting and sound recording industries, which has historically thrived without such charges. The resolution highlights that local radio stations provide substantial free publicity and promotion for the recording industry through airplay, interviews, and concert promotions. It also underscores the vital role local radio plays in delivering essential local news, weather information during emergencies, and public service announcements. Imposing new performance fees would cause severe economic hardship for thousands of local radio stations and other small businesses, ultimately harming consumers who rely on these critical services and the current system that has fostered innovative industries.