Washington, DC - May 27, 2009 - The National Association of Broadcasters launched a competition encouraging radio stations across America to produce and air their own 30-second radio spot opposing the proposed performance royalty fee. According to the NAB:

The competition, dubbed "Don't Tax That Dial," will call on the creative skills and promotional power of radio stations in an effort to thwart a lobbying campaign by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), which aims to levy a new fee on radio stations for music aired free to listeners.

The winning entry will be awarded $2,500 and be recognized at The 2009 NAB Radio Show in Philadelphia. Additionally, airfare, hotel accommodations and complimentary NAB Radio Show registration for two will be provided to the winning entry. Entries for the competition, open to over-the-air U.S. broadcast radio stations, must be submitted to the NAB no later than 11 p.m. EDT on July 31, 2009. Stations must complete a Political Agreement Form and place it in the political portion of their public file for a period of two years. Complete rules, guidelines and supporting material can be found on the NAB website www.NoPerformanceTax.org.

The heated battle between the two opponents in this issue (the NAB and the RIAA) will likely see a response from the RIAA. The NAB refers to the fee as a tax, even though it is not.