Current issues in Congress:
American Music Fairness Act (AMFA): AMFA will provide a performance right (royalty) for music played on AM/FM terrestrial radio, in the same way they are paid when their music is played on streaming services. Currently, AM/FM stations are the only media that do not compensate artists for their music.
Performing Artist Tax Parity Act: Offered by Representatives Judy Chu (D-CA) and Vern Buchanan (R-FL), this act will restore tax benefits for arts workers lost in the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.
Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act: The PRO Act restores the right of workers to freely and fairly form a union and bargain together for changes in the workplace. It is a landmark worker empowerment, civil rights, and economic stimulus legislation.
About TEMPO
What is TEMPO?
The Taskforce for Employment of Musicians, Promotional Organization (TEMPO) is a club supported by voluntary contributions from members of the American Federation of Musicians (AFM) and its allies who recognize the need for political action to achieve the union’s legislative goals.
Why do we need TEMPO?
By law, unions cannot use general funds to support political candidates. However, political engagement is crucial for electing officials who represent the interests of AFM members. TEMPO exists to fund this necessary political activity through voluntary contributions.
Does TEMPO support a particular political party?
No. TEMPO supports deserving candidates for President, the U.S. Senate, and the U.S. House of Representatives, regardless of their political party affiliation.
Does TEMPO tell me how to vote?
No. You are free to vote however you choose. TEMPO’s role is simply to support candidates who have demonstrated or pledged to work in the best interests of AFM members.
Are contributions to TEMPO tax-deductible?
No. Contributions to TEMPO are not tax-deductible as charitable contributions for federal tax purposes.
Why should I join TEMPO?
By joining TEMPO, your contribution is combined with those of thousands of other AFM members, amplifying its impact.
Join TEMPO:
Please join other musicians throughout the United States by supporting candidates fighting for us by joining TEMPO for any amount of your choosing or by joining the TEMPO Signature Leadership Program for a one-time annual payment of $52.00.
Resources
International Musician’s Legislative Update
AFM Legislative Lobbying Efforts
AFM is not soliciting contributions to TEMPO from any individual who is not a member of the American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada (AFM), executive or professional employee of AFM or its affiliates, or their family member living in the same household. Any contribution received from such an individual will be returned to that contributor. Only United States citizens and lawful permanent United States residents may contribute. AFM TEMPO makes contributions and expenditures in federal, state and local elections. All contributions are voluntary and an individual may refuse to contribute without any reprisal. Any guideline contribution amount is merely a suggestion and an individual is free to contribute more or less and AFM will not favor or disadvantage the individual by reason of the amount of a contribution or a decision not to contribute. Federal law requires us to use our best efforts to collect and report the name, mailing address, occupation and name of employer of individuals whose contributions exceed $200 in a calendar year. Contributions and gifts to AFM TEMPO are not tax deductible. Contributions by foreign nationals, corporations or companies are prohibited.