Obama backs PRA

PREZ IN TUNE WITH PRA: The Obama administration has formally endorsed the controversial Performance Rights Act. On Tuesday afternoon White House Intellectual Property Enforcement Coordinator Victoria Espinel recommended a number of changes relating to online piracy, counterfeiting and broadcasting, including support for on-air performance royalties, Digital Music News reports. The NAB was not pleased, obviously, issuing a statement criticizing the "jobs-killing fee on America's hometown radio stations." Representing the other side of the debate was the RIAA’s Mitch Bainwol, who said, "We appreciate the Administration's recommendation that Congress enact a performance right which would finally close a longstanding and unfair loophole in copyright law." (3/16a)