Congressman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) has introduced legislation that aims to make it easier for independent music labels to access markets overseas. The Making United States Independents Competitive (MUSIC) Act would open up foreign markets to independent labels by helping them connect with new audiences and distributors at international music trade shows.

"Our small, independent music labels are finding it increasingly difficult to sell their goods in the global marketplace," said Nadler. "This bill would help promote U. S. exports in an extremely competitive industry whose talents cannot be outsourced. Helping these businesses access foreign markets is also an important part of President Obama’s goal to double U. S. exports in five years – an effort in which New York, home to many independent music labels and artists, continues to take the lead."

"This program will support the export efforts of small to medium-sized businesses and their artists," said Rich Bengloff, President of the American Association of Independent Music (A2IM). "The MUSIC Act will not only strengthen exports for independent labels but will also have a positive effect across the entire U.S. economy by improving our balance of trade. We are thankful for Rep. Nadler's continued efforts to support independent music labels, their artists, and the entire creative community."

According to Nadler's announcement of the bill, the MUSIC Act "expands upon existing authority held by the U.S. Department of Commerce to help small businesses access foreign markets." Specifically, the bill would authorize the Secretary of Commerce to assist independent music labels in sending their artists to international music trade shows.  While most other nations represented at international trade shows provide assistance to their own labels – in the form of travel costs, booth construction, and admission fees, only the U. S. and Mexico provide no assistance to their independent labels attending these conventions.