Senate Panel Okays Audio Flag

So-called audio flag language was approved by lawmakers, who were voting on numerous amendments to the Senate’s version of the rewrite of the Telecom Act.
Members of the Senate Commerce Committee approved language that, if passed, authorizes the FCC to establish a “review board.” This would be made up of representatives of various entities with a stake in the outcome and would develop audio flag technology regulations within a year, plus a possible six-month extension.
If the group fails to turn in a flag proposal, the commission may – but wouldn’t have to – initiate a proceeding to determine what, “if any,” digital audio copyright protections are necessary, according to the amendment.
Audio flag is not part of the House version of the telecommunications reform measure.