New York Governor Spitzer Signs Legislation To Protect Recording Artists From Impersonators

Article continues below...

August 21, 2007 -- New York Governor Eliot Spitzer today announced that he has signed legislation protecting the income and artistic rights of musical groups that are victimized by impersonators and deceptive promotion.

The legislation, known as the Truth in Music Advertising Law, was inspired when well-known recording artists such as the Platters, the Coasters, and the Drifters suffered significant financial losses when their acts and routines were copied without permission or authorization, and patrons were mislead by false and deceptive advertisements.

The new law specifically amends the Arts and Cultural Affairs Law by authorizing the Attorney General to protect the rights of original artists and prohibits those who copy their style and performances through false representations such as invoking similar names, billings and promotion of the original artists by another performer. The bill also provides for civil penalties ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 for violations of the new law.

“Music artists work for years to build names for themselves in the entertainment industry,” said Governor Spitzer. “We should not allow others to impersonate their work and profit from that deception.”

Senator John J. Flanagan, sponsor of the legislation, said: “We are privileged that there are a number of bands from years ago whose musical hits continue to be enjoyed by today’s audiences. Enacting the ‘Truth in Musical Advertising Act’ will for the first time legally protect a band’s reputation and financial interests, ensure that concerts are being truthfully advertised, and that concert patrons are protected against consumer fraud.”

Assemblyman Peter Rivera, sponsor of the legislation, said: “This legislation protects consumers and musicians. Fans want to see the groups they love and should get what they pay for. In a sense, this also preserves our musical heritage.”

The legislation, both in New York and in other states, was known in legislative circles as the “Bowzer Bill.” It was named after Jon “Bowzer” Bauman of the popular group Sha Na Na, who became actively involved in advocating for the change in state capitols around the country. Bauman met with legislators in Albany earlier this year.

Source: New York Governor