NAB Statement on Department of Justice Decision on ASCAP and BMI Consent Decrees

Gordon Smith

In response to the Department of Justice’s decision to take no action on the consent decrees governing the performance royalty organizations ASCAP and BMI, NAB President and CEO Gordon Smith released the following statement:

“NAB is very pleased that the Department of Justice will not move to make changes to the ASCAP and BMI consent decrees. We appreciate the willingness of DOJ to have an open mind and to conduct a comprehensive review of all of the possible issues raised by stakeholders concerning modifying or eliminating the decrees. DOJ’s decision not to take action will ensure that ASCAP and BMI continue to fairly and efficiently license musical works in a manner that is pro-competitive. Broadcasters look forward to continuing to work with the performance rights organizations for the mutual benefit of songwriters, music licensees and listeners.”