Bill would extend commercial-ad loudness limits to streaming platforms

Sen. Harris presented SB 528 to the Finance Committee, proposing Maryland adopt rules that require streaming platforms to maintain commercial-ad audio levels consistent with the surrounding programming.

Sponsor testimony noted that the federal Commercial Advertisement Loudness Mitigation Act covers broadcast, cable and satellite but not streaming services; SB 528 would close that gap so "consumer protection should not depend on the delivery method of content," the sponsor said. Proponents cited recent action in California and Virginia as models.

Grama Wiggins of the Maryland Chamber of Commerce said the chamber supports the bill with technical amendments aligning definitions and clarifying there should be no private right of action. Ronza Othman, president of the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland (virtual), described how louder ads can overwhelm screen-reading technology and prevent blind and deaf‑blind viewers from navigating content, calling the practice discriminatory.

Committee members discussed enforcement options, whether private lawsuits should be allowed, and what technical standards apply to streaming. No vote was taken; the sponsor accepted written amendments and attendees indicated willingness to align definitions with other states.