1 Great Thing: America Celebrates its Independence

On Monday, our nation will commemorate the passage of the Declaration of Independence by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776.

As we celebrate our independence, NAB would like to thank our nation's local broadcasters, whose work as a free press is vital to our democracy.

✨ From all of us at NAB, have a wonderful Fourth of July holiday! ✨

2. Legislation Permitting Legalized Cannabis Advertising Advances

Last Friday, the House Appropriations committee passed a bill that includes language preventing the FCC from penalizing broadcasters that accept cannabis advertising in states where it's legal.

We welcome this long overdue step toward finally offering clarity to broadcasters and providing equal treatment regarding cannabis advertising that other forms of media have had for years.

But… this is simply the first step in a complex process that will unfold in the next few weeks and into the fall.

3. Cable Copyright Royalties Claims Due Aug. 1

To receive 2021 cable copyright royalties, you must file your claim with the Copyright Royalty Board (CRB) between July 1 and August 1, 2022.

Before filing a claim, you must register with the CRB's electronic filing and case management system, the eCRB.

⏱ The bottom line: Royalties are awarded only to those who have filed a formal and timely claim with the CRB.

4. You Can Make a Difference for Ukrainian Children in Need

It's not too late to help Ukrainian children by supporting UNICEF USA's humanitarian work.

• Use these tools to share this campaign on your station's social channels, website and newscasts.
  • Sample post: Our station is joining broadcasters across the country to support @UNICEFUSA efforts to help the children of Ukraine. Help us make a difference. Donate now at unicefusa.org/action.
• Click here to download PSAs from UNICEF USA in English and Spanish for broadcast television and radio. Run these PSAs through or beyond July 4.

5. New COVID Vaccine Spots Target Parents of Kids Under 5

The COVID Collaborative has released spots featuring Elmo to encourage families to ask their doctors questions and get kids vaccinated.

• Download the spots here.
• More tools to help you communicate about the COVID vaccines with your community are available at nab.org/vaccine.

6. It's Time to Invite Members of Congress to Your Station

In one month, Congress will break for the August congressional recess and go back to their district offices.

Now is the time to get on their schedule and invite them to visit your station.

NAB continues to tout the incredible work of broadcasters to your legislators, but there's nothing like seeing it in action to drive the point home.

Check out NAB's Speak Up website for tools and tips on how to strengthen relationships with your members of Congress, or simply email us at advocacy@nab.org for assistance.

7. A Reason to Celebrate!

👏 We heard that the state broadcasters' associations are donating nearly $11,000 to the National Alliance for Mental Illness Oregon in honor of former NAB President and CEO Gordon Smith. Snaps all around!