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California bans loud commercials on Netflix, Hulu, and other streaming services
California has enacted a law mandating that streaming services like Netflix and Hulu must keep commercial audio volumes equal to the content, effective July 1, 2026. Governor Newsom emphasized the need for quieter ads, inspired by parental concerns. This legislation aligns streaming practices with those of traditional TV, potentially influencing similar regulations nationwide.
Key points
- California passes SB 576 to regulate commercial volume on streaming platforms.
- Law signed by Governor Newsom on Monday; effective from July 1, 2026.
- Streamed ads cannot be louder than the accompanying content.
- Inspired by a complaint from a legislative director about loud ads disturbing his sleeping baby.
- The law mirrors the 2010 CALM Act for traditional TV broadcasters.
- California's influence may prompt nationwide changes in streaming ad regulations.
Why it matters
- The trend of regulating advertising volume can be seen in the history of the CALM Act for traditional TV.
- As more users shift to streaming services, the user experience of loud ads has become a significant concern.
- California's decisions often set precedents that influence national regulations, especially in technology and media.
This law addresses a common nuisance for streaming viewers, aligning modern regulations with those of traditional media, and could set a trend for other states to follow.