Number: 98-904
Title: COPYRIGHT TERM EXTENSION AND MUSIC LICENSING: ANALYSIS OF SONNY BONO COPYRIGHT TERM EXTENSION ACT AND FAIRNESS IN MUSIC LICENSING ACT, P.L. 105-298
Authors: Dorothy Schrader, American Law Division 
Abstract: Public Law 105-298 extends the term of copyright protection by an additional 20 years and makes two major reforms in music licensing practices. Title I of the law is also known as the Sonny Bono Copyright Term Extension Act. In addition to term extension, Title I creates a new termination right during the 20-year added period and grants libraries and nonprofit educational institutions an exemption to reproduce works that are not commercially exploited and are not available at a reasonable price during the 20-year added period. Title II of the law is also known as the Fairness in Music Licensing Act. This Title expands the exemption from the music performing right for businesses playing music by turning on radios and televisions in public places, and requires local judicial review of the licensing rates set by the performing rights societies that license the performance of nondramatic music. This report explains the provisions of P.L. 105-298, reviews key aspects of the legislative history, and notes changes from prior law.
Pages: 13
Date: Updated October 27, 1998