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USA Federal Legislation Simplified

Protect Working Musicians Act of 2026

H.R. 8994
May 21, 2026
H.R. 8994
May 21, 2026

Summary

Allows independent musicians to team up to get fairer deals from large online music services and AI companies without breaking competition laws.

What problem does this solve?

Large online music platforms hold too much power, forcing independent artists into unfair payment deals. This bill gives artists the ability to negotiate together as a group for better terms.

What does this bill do?

Creates antitrust protection for musicians
Shields independent music creators from being sued under competition laws when they team up to negotiate with large online platforms or AI companies.
Defines eligible independent musicians
Specifies that the protection applies to creators who own their copyrights and earned less than $1 million in licensing fees last year or qualify as a small business.
Identifies dominant online platforms
Targets online services with over $100 million in annual music-related revenue, ensuring the focus is on the largest players in the market.
Includes negotiations with AI companies
Extends the right to collectively negotiate to deals with companies that develop or use generative artificial intelligence.
Sets rules for negotiations
Requires that group negotiations must be non-discriminatory, not limited only to price, and must not involve anyone other than the independent creators and the dominant platform.

Who does this affect?

  • Independent musicians and creators
  • Online music distribution platforms
  • Generative AI companies

What is the real world impact?

•
Levels the playing field for artists
Gives independent musicians more power when dealing with giant tech companies that control music distribution. This helps them secure better payment and terms for their work.
•
Addresses the rise of AI in music
Extends negotiation rights to cover companies developing generative AI. This ensures artists can have a say in how their music is used to train AI systems and are paid fairly for it.

When does this start?

This bill would go into effect as soon as it is signed into law.