SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to curb program viewers’ discomfort and annoyance, State Senator Doris Turner led a measure through the Senate that would ban loud commercials on streaming services.

“It’s frustrating when you’re watching a show, and it cuts to a commercial that is much louder than the show you were watching,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “This problem is all too familiar, especially for parents who have kids who nap, seniors and individuals with hearing sensitivity.”

The Federal Communications Commission preempts most state and local regulation of cable or broadcast television, but streaming services operate over the internet and fall outside that scope. Senate Bill 3222 would prohibit commercials from being played louder than the programming on video streaming services, directly improving viewership experiences.

“No one should be subjected to unnecessarily loud commercials,” said Turner. “This is about prioritizing the consumer.”

Senate Bill 3222 passed the Senate with bipartisan support and heads to the House for further consideration.