The Protect Working Musicians Act would let independent artists and small labels collectively negotiate with streaming platforms and AI developers, Rep. Deborah Ross said Thursday.
Ross, a Democratic congresswoman from North Carolina, said the bill aims to help smaller music creators demand fair pay. She said streaming platforms and AI companies hold market power that individual artists cannot match.
The measure would create an antitrust exemption for qualifying musicians. As a result, artists could bargain collectively without violating federal antitrust law.
Under current law, Ross said, independent musicians often face fixed terms from major platforms such as Spotify and Apple Music. Meanwhile, AI developers have drawn criticism from artists for using music without clear consent or licensing.
The Protect Working Musicians Act has support from several music groups. Backers include the American Association of Independent Music, Artist Rights Alliance, American Federation of Musicians, Recording Academy, National Music Publishers’ Association and SAG-AFTRA.
The bill is cosponsored by Democratic Representatives Steve Cohen of Tennessee and Lloyd Doggett of Texas, according to Ross’s office. The proposal builds on earlier versions introduced in 2021 and 2023.
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Ian Harrison, chief executive of A2IM, said independent musicians face an uneven field when negotiating with powerful technology and streaming companies.
Jen Jacobsen, executive director of the Artist Rights Alliance, said the bill would give music creators a stronger voice in licensing talks. Singer-songwriter Tift Merritt also backed the measure, saying musicians have lacked a seat at the table in their own economy.
