Broadcast lobby objects

Legislation requiring earthbound radio stations to pay the same performance royalties paid by satellite and internet radio made a lot of progress in the current Congress, though it may die when congressmembers recess for the elections.

The Nevada Broadcasters Association, which opposes the extension ("Smaller stations could be forced to shut their doors, putting people in your community out of work. Larger stations would have to cut back on the local content they proudly provide."), is touting the fact that U.S. Reps. Shelley Berkley and Jon Porter of Nevada have signed onto a non-binding resolution opposing the royalties. But many signatories of that measure are expected to support final royalty legislation, either this year or in 2009.