Relating to the audio volume level of commercial advertisements provided by a video streaming service, and providing penalties

This bill relates to the audio volume level of commercial advertisements provided by a video streaming service. Under the bill, on and after July 1, 2026, a video streaming service that serves a consumer residing in Iowa shall not transmit to such consumer a commercial advertisement with a higher average audio volume level that is louder than the average audio volume level of the video programming or video content that the commercial advertisement accompanies. The bill defines “video streaming service” as an entity that makes available directly to a consumer, through a distribution method using internet protocol, video programming or video content. “Video streaming service” does not include a television broadcast station, cable operator, or other multichannel video programming distributor, or an entity that provides commercial-free video programming or video content. “Video programming” is defined in the bill, and does not include “consumer-generated media”, as that term is defined in the bill. The bill shall be enforced consistent with federal communications commission regulations regarding the federal Commercial Advertisement Loudness Mitigation Act. If the utilities commission (commission) has reasonable belief that a video streaming service violated or is violating the bill, the commission may bring civil action to enjoin further violations, enforce compliance with the bill, and seek civil penalties in an amount of not more than $500 for each violation. Each day that a video streaming service is in violation of the bill is a separate violation. When the commission notifies a video streaming service of complaints in violation of the bill, the video streaming service may show compliance by demonstrating actual compliance with the bill, or by showing ongoing compliance with the most recently published recommended practices provided by the advanced television systems committee. The bill shall not be construed to create a private right of action.