Massive online platforms have a disproportionate amount of power, and artists - especially small and independent creators - are forced to accept the music licensing terms offered by streaming platforms and AI developers. The Protect Working Musicians Act would allow independent artists to collectively negotiate with platforms, demanding fair compensation for their work.

The Protect Working Musicians Act would empower small independent artists and music creators by:

• Allowing working artists and independent musicians to band together to negotiate with dominant streaming platforms and artificial intelligence developers.
• Making clear the antitrust laws are no obstacle to these negotiations;
• Granting working artists and independent musicians the ability to collectively refuse to license their music to a dominant online music distribution platform that refuses to pay market value rates.

Tell your representatives to support the Protect Working Musicians Act!

“In recent years, streaming services have only become bigger and more powerful while working musicians and independent labels have had to face new challenges and threats including the explosion of AI applications using their work without licensing or pay. This bill will level the playing field by empowering small and independent music creators to stand together and be heard in the vital negotiations that will shape the future of music for us all." Rep. Deborah Ross (D-NC)