It has been over three years since the Music Modernization Act (MMA) transformed music licensing in the digital age. As mandated by the MMA, the United States Copyright Office will now assess how well the MLC and DLC have carried out their important duties.
This marks the first of what will become a routine five-year check-in for both organizations. Their performance will be scrutinized to ensure the needs of songwriters, publishers,, and music streamers continue to be met.
The review process kicks off as the MLC and DLC each submit self-evaluations. They will outline achievements so far as well as future goals. Key reporting areas include maintaining broad support across their respective industries, demonstrating strong administrative capabilities, and governing transparently. The MLC must also address progress on prior Copyright Office recommendations around unclaimed royalties. And the DLC must account for its role in copyright royalty proceedings.
Once published, the self-reports open the door for public feedback. Industry stakeholders can weigh in on whether the MLC and DLC warrant continued designation. The organizations then get a chance to respond to any public inputs. Informal meetings between the Copyright Office and the entities may also take place to tackle specific concerns in advance of the final ruling.
Lessons from the MMA’s first Congressional review last year will likely resurface. At that hearing, leaders from the DMA and MLC shared learnings around the law’s impacts so far.
While re-designation is expected, the Copyright Office reserves the right to seek out new collective management options through an open process.
MLC CEO Kris Ahrend welcomed the review, expressing confidence that the organization has stayed true to its mission. The evaluation presents an opportunity to spotlight successes since launch. Both organizations will aim to demonstrate their continued ability to serve the needs of songwriters, publishers and digital services.
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