Summary
A new law in California requires streaming services to ensure their commercials are not louder than the shows viewers are watching. This state law extends a federal rule, originally aimed at broadcast TV and radio ads, to also cover streaming platforms. Starting July 1, 2026, streaming services must meet this requirement to address complaints about loud ads.
Key Facts
- California passed a law to prevent commercials from being louder than regular video content on streaming services.
- The law builds on a 2010 federal law that applies to TV and radio ads.
- California's rule will take effect on July 1, 2026.
- The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has received thousands of complaints about loud streaming ads.
- Streaming services like Netflix and Hulu are headquartered in California.
- The entertainment industry initially opposed the law, stating it is hard to manage ad volumes on various devices.
- The law was modified to stop individuals from suing streaming services over loud ads.
- Streaming representatives like Disney and Netflix no longer oppose the amended law.
