South OC Times

Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-48), Chairman of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Intellectual Property, Artificial Intelligence, and the Courts, along with Congressman Jerry Nadler (NY-12) and other bipartisan colleagues, has reintroduced the American Music Fairness Act (AMFA). The legislation aims to ensure that artists and music creators receive compensation when their songs are played on FM/AM radio. Senators Blackburn (R-TN) and Padilla (D-CA) have introduced the AMFA in the Senate.

Representative Issa stated, "Now is the time for the United States to finally adopt the proven global standard of compensating our artists for music broadcast over the radio." He emphasized that AMFA seeks to modernize the system and properly reward artists. Senator Blackburn highlighted Tennessee's musical heritage, stating, "The United States is the only democratic country in which artists are not paid for the use of their music on AM and FM radio."

Senator Padilla expressed concern over California's artists being denied fair pay: "As we celebrate... at the Grammy Awards... we must also commit to treating them with dignity and respect." Harvey Mason jr., CEO of the Recording Academy, praised Reps. Issa and Nadler along with Senators Blackburn and Padilla for introducing AMFA.

SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher criticized current practices as "outrageous" and called AMFA a step towards fairness. Dr. Richard James Burgess MBE from A2IM stressed that Congress must hold broadcasters accountable. Former U.S. Senator Mark Pryor urged Congress to support working musicians by passing AMFA.

Mitch Glazier from RIAA described AMFA as a practical solution that has previously received bipartisan support. Sound Exchange CEO Michael Huppe pointed out that radio conglomerates profit without paying artists due to an existing loophole.

Tino Gagliardi from AFM thanked Reps. Issa and Nadler for recognizing musicians' value, while Gary Shapiro from CTA supported leveling the playing field through this bipartisan bill.

Issa concluded by emphasizing intellectual property rights: “Every artist who first picked up a drumstick... did so because they had a dream.” The act aims to address longstanding disparities in how musicians are compensated across different platforms.