Unions Support Performance Right for Musicians
From Congress Daily A.M.
Organized labor will ramp up its involvement in a recording industry-led effort to end the royalty exemption granted to AM and FM radio as stakeholders debate the issue today before the House Judiciary Committee. The American Federation of Television and Radio Artists and the American Federation of Musicians have been on the front lines of the fight for some time, but groups representing service employees, teachers and others plan to back artists.
"Like all professionals, singers and musicians spend years developing their musical talents and abilities and invest substantial resources in their careers. They make considerable sacrifices in an effort to succeed in their chosen field," AFL-CIO executive Paul Almeida said in a statement. Cable, Internet and satellite music services compensate performers...
...The AFL-CIO's support is echoed in a letter that is being sent to the Hill by the presidents of the Service Employees International Union, the American Federation of Teachers and the United Steelworkers, the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, and the Communications Workers of America.
...according to Bainwol's prepared statement, circumstances are not as dire as broadcasters suggest: "This year radio will spin almost a billion songs in the United States, leading to billions in revenue from advertising. The payment to artists and labels for use of those recordings, however, will not amount even to a penny." He said owners of small stations, and noncommercial and religious broadcasters, would be afforded special accommodations under the legislation.
http://www.nationaljournal.com/congressdaily/cda_20090310_6375.php
