The National Association of Broadcasters announced recently that they appear to have the votes needed to see their side of the terrestrial radio royalty issue pass through the House of Representatives. The NAB announced that four additional House members have voiced opposition to the recording industry-backed effort to have royalties for music played on local radio stations. According to the NAB, the Congressional opposition to the label-led campaign now stands at 219 out of the 435-member U.S. House of Representatives. This would give the NAB side of the issue a majority.

NAB Executive Vice President Dennis Wharton stated, “Today’s announcement sends a powerful message to foreign-owned record labels that Congress is not falling for their bogus campaign to blame local radio stations for their financial woes. NAB thanks those members of Congress who appreciate the fact that free radio airplay of music generates untold millions into the wallets of performers and record labels. We will continue to educate policymakers on the devastating impact this RIAA tax would have on America’s hometown radio stations.”

Opposing the proposed royalty legislation has been one of several lobbying efforts on the part of the terrestrial radio organization. With what appears to be enough support in the House, the lobbying efforts could well shift over to the Senate. Terrestrial radio, unlike satellite and Internet radio, currently does not have to pay royalties.

NAB Press Release