1. United States
2. Kan.
3. Letter

The American Music Fairness Act of 2025 seeks to establish a public performance right for sound recordings when transmitted by terrestrial radio stations. This would require radio stations to pay royalties to artists and record labels for airplay, closing a longstanding exemption under current copyright law. The proposed legislation aims to provide equitable treatment for terrestrial broadcasts and internet audio services while offering specific protections for small broadcasters. Key provisions include: - Granting sound recording copyright holders a public performance right for radio airplay - Setting royalty rates tiered by station revenue size, with lower fees for smaller stations - Allowing the Copyright Royalty Board to consider radio's promotional value when determining rates - Ensuring payments to featured and non-featured artists beyond record labels' direct licenses This reform would align U.S. terrestrial radio with existing royalty payments for digital services. It seeks to properly compensate musicians and rights holders for their intellectual property while accounting for radio's unique circumstances and benefits. Ensuring all stakeholders receive fair remuneration will support a vibrant and sustainable music industry ecosystem.