Webcasters still have time to join the licensing discussion, but must hurry

As we noted earlier this week, the Copyright Royalty Board set next Monday, February 3, as the deadline for webcasters to file an intention to participate in the two-year royalty setting process arbitrated by the CRB. The Copyright Royalty Board is a three-judge panel charged with representing the U.S. government in arbitrating music-licensing rates between online music services and artists/labels. The artists and labels are represented in this proceeding by SoundExchange, a Performing Rights Organization (PRO) which collects and distributes royalty payments.

Any webcaster can file for participation with some paperwork and a $150 fee. Inclusion in the process signals a desire to observe the process at least, and possibly participate in arguments and litigation.

At stake is the webcasting royalty scheme for the statutory five-year period from 2016 through 2020. The decision-making process encompasses two years leading up to that period. The 2015-2020 window is the fourth period whose webcasting royalty rates are governed by the CRB process.

Applicants can take quickest action by writing the CRB at this email address: crb@loc.gov, or by calling CRB program specialist LaKeshia Keys at (202) 707–7658.