Wyoming US Senators Cynthia Lummis and John Barrasso have introduced a bipartisan resolution called the Local Radio Freedom Act, County 10 reports.
This bill seeks to protect locally owned radio stations from potential new taxes and fees. The resolution underscores the important role of local broadcasters in keeping communities well-informed, entertained, and safe.
Senator Lummis emphasized the vital service that local radio provides to residents of Wyoming, saying:
“Local radio keeps every corner of the Cowboy State informed, entertained, and safe. If broadcasters are forced to pay additional taxes and fees, vital programs get put on the chopping block. I am proud to join my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to stand up for rural Americans who rely on local programming.”
Senator Barrasso also expressed his concerns about the potential impact of new taxes on local radio.
“For decades, radio stations and the recording industry have enjoyed a mutually beneficial relationship: free airplay for free promotion. If forced to pay a performance royalty, broadcasters will have to make cuts to important programming to make ends meet. I’m proud to join Senator Maggie Hassan in introducing our bipartisan resolution to block any new performance tax on broadcasters in Wyoming and across the country.”
Currently, radio stations pay performance royalties to songwriters and publishers, but performers are compensated separately by music publishers. The proposed legislation aims to prevent any additional financial burdens on broadcasters.
Will Hill, President and CEO of County 10, a locally owned media company, commented on the importance of protecting local radio.
“As a locally-owned and operated media company, we’re here to serve our community,” Hill said. “Every year, regulatory fees and costs for broadcasters go up and it gets harder just to provide the service we do. I am grateful to our Wyoming Senators for seeing the value in local radio and seeking to protect it from yet another burdensome fee.”
