This bill establishes regulations regarding the audio volume of commercial advertisements transmitted by video streaming services in Iowa. Effective July 1, 2026, these services are prohibited from broadcasting advertisements at a volume louder than the accompanying video programming or content. The bill defines "video streaming service" and clarifies that it does not include traditional television broadcast stations or entities that provide commercial-free content. Additionally, it outlines that the enforcement of these regulations will align with federal standards set by the Commercial Advertisement Loudness Mitigation Act.

The Iowa Utilities Commission is granted the authority to enforce compliance with this bill. If the commission believes a video streaming service is violating the volume regulation, it can initiate civil action to stop further violations and impose penalties of up to $500 for each infraction, with each day of violation counted separately. The bill also allows video streaming services to demonstrate compliance in response to complaints by providing evidence of adherence to the regulations or ongoing compliance with industry best practices. Importantly, the bill specifies that it does not create a private right of action for individuals.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 474.1