Four more Reps oppose PRA

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The total number of US Representatives who are now signed onto the Local Radio Freedom Act, and who stand in opposition to the Performance Rights Act, has reached 256 with the addition of a quartet of Democrats. Meanwhile, Country group Lady Antebellum has joined the chorus of musicians who recognize the value of radio airplay.


The latest additions to the list of Capitol Hill opponents of PRA include Travis Childers (D-MS), Mike McMahon (D-NY), Bill Owens (D-NY), and Mark Schauer (D-MI). 218 is the tipping point in the 435-member body, a sign of tough sledding for PRA should it ever be brought to the floor.

Lady Antebellum recounted the tale of the first time they heard themselves on the radio during an appearance on “Oprah.” Band members said it happened in Rochester NY, and that it was an emotion high point in their career thus far.

“We’re pleased that the bipartisan Congressional opposition to an RIAA tax on free radio continues to grow,” said NAB’s Dennis Wharton. “Local radio provides an unparalleled promotional platform for the record labels and performing artists, as validated by the comments of Lady Antebellum. We’re hopeful that Congress will ultimately reject RIAA’s reckless campaign against America’s hometown radio stations.”