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The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is considering whether to update the Commercial Advertisement Loudness Mitigation (CALM) Act. The CALM Act requires commercials to have the same average volume as the programs they accompany. These rules apply to television broadcasters and other multichannel video programming providers. However, broadcast providers, unlike streaming platforms, must adhere to industry-wide audio standards.
The FCC wants consumers to tell their experiences regarding the loudness of commercials as they watch video programming. For example, are there times of day, channels, or advertisements that are a consistent source of irritation for consumers? Specifically, the FCC seeks consumer comments about their ability to hear and understand dialogue in streamed shows and movies and whether sound degradation particularly affects those with disabilities.
Comments are due on or before April 10, 2025
Reply comments are due on or before April 25, 2025.
The FCC provides several ways for consumers to submit their comments. The process for filing comments with the FCC is described here - https://www.fcc.gov/general/formal-comments-proceedings
When writing your comments, it is important to include the correct docket number: MB Docket No. 25–72
