This bill establishes regulations regarding the audio volume level of commercial advertisements transmitted by video streaming services in Iowa. Effective July 1, 2026, video streaming services must ensure that the average audio volume level of their commercial advertisements does not exceed the average audio volume level of 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 video programming does not encompass consumer-generated media.

The enforcement of this regulation will align with federal communications commission standards under the Commercial Advertisement Loudness Mitigation Act. The Iowa utilities commission is granted the authority to take civil action against any video streaming service that violates this provision, with potential penalties of up to $500 for each violation, and each day of non-compliance counts as a separate violation. The bill also allows video streaming services to demonstrate compliance upon receiving complaints, either by providing evidence of actual compliance or by adhering to recommended practices from the advanced television systems committee. Importantly, the bill specifies that it does not create a private right of action for individuals.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 474.1