California has taken a significant step to regulate the volume of TV commercials. Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill into law that prohibits commercials from being louder than the programs they interrupt.
This move aims to address the long-standing complaint of viewers being startled by excessively loud advertisements.
The new law requires commercials to maintain the same volume level as the content they are accompanying. This means that viewers will no longer have to endure jarring volume changes while watching their favorite shows or documentaries. “We heard Californians loud and clear, and what’s clear is that they don’t want commercials at a volume any louder than the level at which they were previously enjoying a program,” Governor Newsom said after signing the bill.
The legislation updates outdated laws that only applied to broadcast and cable providers, now extending to include streaming services. This ensures that all TV commercials, regardless of the platform, adhere to the same volume standards.
Viewers have long complained about the disparity in volume between TV programs and commercials. The sudden shift from a peaceful nature documentary to a loud advertisement can be jarring. With this new law, California aims to create a more enjoyable viewing experience for its residents.
The law is expected to have a significant impact on the advertising industry, particularly in terms of how commercials are produced and aired. Advertisers will need to adjust their production techniques to ensure their ads are aired at the same volume as the surrounding content.
By banning loud TV commercials, California is setting a precedent for other states to follow. This move highlights the growing concern over the impact of loud advertising on viewers and the need for more considerate media practices.