The royalty rate that many webcasters say would put them out of business is due to come into force on 20th October and requires retrospective payments dating back to 1998.
The new bill postpones the enforcement of payments for a six-month period to allow an assessment of fees. It was approved by the House of Representatives in conjunction with approval of a deal reached on Sunday by record companies, recording artists and webcasters that gives preferential treatment to small businesses.
Under the proposed deal, which must also be approved by the Senate, webcasters with revenues below $250,000 would pay the greater of 10% of their revenues for broadcasts between 1998 and the end of 2002 or 7% of expenses; those turning over between $250,000 and $500,000 would pay the greater of 12% or 7% respectively.