Music lic fees for stores

[Gary F <gff@mediaone.net>]

I recall some time back a thread on this list concerned the fees stores & restaurants had to pay ASCAP, BMI and SESAC in order to play a radio or TV.

While going through an industry newsletter today I found that in November Congress passed a bill that would ease copyright laws and exempt smaller restaurants (3,750 sq feet or less - this would include most fast food places) from paying royalty fees for playing radio & television music. Larger establishments would also be exempt if they used a "consumer" type radio or stereo with only 2 speakers or other limited equipment.  New rules will also make it easier to challenge royalty fees by going to one of the 12 circuit courts around the country - until now disputes HAD to be settled in court in New York City ONLY.

- -Gary Francis

------------------------------