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

This bill relates to the audio volume of commercial advertisements provided by a video streaming service. Under the bill, on and after July 1, 2026, a video streaming service is prohibited from transmitting to a consumer in Iowa a commercial advertisement with an audio volume that is louder than the audio volume 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. If the utilities commission (commission) has reasonable belief that a video streaming service violated or is violating the bill, the commission may enforce the bill by enjoining further violations, enforcing compliance with the bill, and seeking 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 standards adopted by the commission. The bill shall not be construed to create a private right of action. The bill provides that streaming services subject to the bill are subject to complaints and investigations by the commission and rules adopted by the commission. The bill authorizes the commission to allocate and charge directly the expenses attributable to proceedings carried out under the bill.