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Here's a copy of an e-mail I just got today from Sen. Marco Rubio.

Dear Mr. Willis,



Thank you for contacting me in regard to radio broadcaster royalty rates. I would like to take this opportunity to address this important issue.

As you may know, the 1998 Digital Millennium Copyright Act established a multi-tiered method for determining the royalty rates which radio broadcasters must pay to artists. The rates set today under the law vary for terrestrial (AM/FM), satellite, and Internet radio. Recently, legislation has been introduced to address the discrepancies among these varying royalty rates. The Internet Radio Freedom Act, S. 3609, which was introduced by Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) on September 21, 2012, would apply the same methodology used for satellite providers to internet radio providers' royalty rates.

Since our country's founding, Congress has had the power to protect artists' ownership of copyrighted material to assure the value of their property. Over time that power has covered musical works and allowed songwriters to have the right of authorship. Now over 230 years later, the Internet has changed the way we experience music and become a source of immense value for American consumers and businesses alike. The progress of innovative technology should not be halted by outdated government regulations, nor should artists be unfairly compensated for their life's work. We must strike the appropriate balance.

The Internet Radio Freedom Act was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary in the 112th Congress, where it has since expired. While this bill has yet to be reintroduced into the 113th Congress, please know should it or similar legislation come before the Senate for consideration I will keep your thoughts in mind.

It is an honor to serve the people of Florida. I appreciate the opportunity to discuss this important topic. If I can be of further assistance, please contact my office.






Sincerely,

Marco Rubio
United States Senator

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Thanks Sen. Rubio for responding. I haven't heard a word from my other Sen. Bill Nelson (D) on the subject yet.