WASHINGTON, D.C. — Reach. Trust. Public Safety. Localism. Marketplace realities.
These are some of the key themes reflecting the NAB Broadcasters’ Policy Agenda for the 118th Congress, shared by the organization at time when the fight for AM radio has become a major endeavour and ensuring no new performance tax on Radio remains a key battle that, for now, is being won.
COMING IN RBR+TVBR’S SPRING 2024 MAGAZINE: Rick Kaplan, the NAB’s Chief Legal Officer and EVP/Legal and Regulatory Affairs, speaks exclusively with Editor-in-Chief Adam R Jacobson about the priorities on Capitol Hill for broadcast radio and TV, and if the FCC is proving to be more challenging than under previous Chairs. Look for it at the 2024 NAB Show in print! RBR+TVBR Members will get an advanced digital copy in their e-mail!
The NAB opens its Policy Agenda, which outlines its key policy priorities for the 118th Congress, with a review of what radio station owners bring to their local communities, providing essential news, information, and entertainment to audiences nationwide. With a focus on delivering verified news against the spread of misinformation online, broadcasters are trusted sources, committed to keeping citizens informed and engaged, the NAB shares.
Then, there is the AM For Every Vehicle Act, which emerged in 2023 as one of the NAB’s key legislative priorities; iHeartMedia, a key NAB Member, owns a host of AM radio stations with no FM translator companion. With electric vehicle manufacturers signaling they would discontinue AM radio availability, the NAB went into hyperdrive on behalf of its members to ensure that kHz-band broadcasters remain accessible to drivers of all vehicles.
This led to bipartisan legislation in both houses of Congress that would mandate the preservation to access of AM radio in all vehicles sold in the U.S. With both versions of the bill nearing critical majorities, the NAB vows to see the AM Act through to the end.
Second, the NAB turned its attention to defending local journalism against Big Tech dominance. Local operators face challenges in sustaining journalism operations against an onslaught from companies like Facebook and Google. The NAB is calling for legislative action to address unfair practices by big tech companies, safeguarding the viability of local news publishers and promoting fair compensation for their content.
Over the last year and three months, the impact of Artificial Intelligence on local journalism has become a major concern. As broadcasters embrace technological advancements, concerns arise regarding the potential misuse of AI in broadcasting. The NAB is urging Congress to assess the implications of AI on journalism integrity and intellectual property rights, ensuring that new technologies uphold the standards of trusted local journalism that have existed for decades.
Finally, an old, unsolved issue for radio returns with the NAB continuing to oppose a new performance tax on local radio. Even as support for the American Music Fairness Act has all but died out, the NAB will continue to advocate for policies that protect local radio listeners and support the industry’s ability to promote new artists and provide diverse music content like the Local Radio Freedom Act.
As the political landscape continues to go through upheaval in a hotly contested Presidential election year, the NAB is using its Congressional policy agenda to underscore the critical role of radio in serving communities and uphold the integrity, accessibility, and sustainability of local journalism and broadcasting.
— With reporting by Cameron Coats, in Nashville
