In a bold move that could reshape the digital entertainment landscape, California lawmakers are taking aim at one of streaming subscribers' most persistent frustrations: blaring advertisements that shatter the peace of binge-watching sessions.
The End of Audio Assault?
The newly proposed legislation, championed by Democratic Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, seeks to extend existing broadcast television regulations to streaming platforms. This would mandate that streaming services maintain consistent audio levels between programming and commercial breaks.
"For too long, streaming consumers have been subjected to jarring volume spikes that disrupt their viewing experience," explained Assemblymember Irwin. "This legislation brings basic consumer protections into the digital age."
What the Bill Would Change
The proposed law would require streaming platforms operating in California to:
- Limit maximum commercial volume to match program audio levels
- Implement technical solutions to prevent abrupt audio increases
- Face potential penalties for non-compliance with the regulations
This initiative mirrors the Commercial Advertisement Loudness Mitigation (CALM) Act, which has governed traditional broadcast television since 2012. The new legislation effectively closes what lawmakers call a "regulatory gap" that has left streaming consumers unprotected.
Industry Impact and Consumer Response
The legislation places major streaming services including Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu under scrutiny. While these platforms have revolutionized content consumption, their advertising practices have increasingly drawn consumer complaints.
Consumer advocacy groups have welcomed the proposal, noting that the shift toward ad-supported streaming tiers makes such protections increasingly necessary. As more viewers opt for cheaper, advertisement-funded subscriptions, the need for consistent audio standards becomes more pressing.
The bill represents California's latest effort to lead on consumer protection in the digital realm, potentially setting a precedent that other states might follow.
