MMA Facing an ‘Tight Deadline’ Before Midterm Elections

The Music Modernization Act (MMA) ultimately survived a serious challenge from Blackstone Group’s SESAC.   But that battle may have eaten precious time off the clock, repofts Digital Music News.  Insiders are pointing to a significantly shortened timetable for the MMA to pass, and mounting challenges from both Sirius XM Radio and Music Choice.

At present, it’s actually unclear if the Music Modernization Act would have enough votes to pass.  Currently, the bill has amassed 46 co-sponsors, out of a total body of 100 Senators.  Undoubtedly, organizations like the National Music Publishers’ Association (NMPA) and Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) are lobbying intently to rally on-the-fence legislators, though opponents of the bill are likely doing the same thing.

It’s also uncertain if the MMA is still being prioritized.  As of Monday (August 13th), the Music Modernization Act isn’t even listed on the US Senate’s schedule of ‘Active Legislation‘.  That suggests a scheduling issue, with recent disputes by SESAC potentially causing the MMA to lose its place in line.

Currently, the Senate is debating a raft of bills related to firearms, opioids, health care, and sanctions against Russia, Iran, and North Korea.