Rep. Mel Watt Approved For Housing Post, Royalty Bill Status Uncertain

Watt

Rep. MEL WATT (D-NC), who has been a thorn in the side of broadcasters due to his championing of a performance royalty bill, was confirmed by the Senate as the new Director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency.  The nomination had been held up since MAY but the "nuclear option" move by Senate Democrats to end the practice of filibustering to block the confirmation of WHITE HOUSE nominees finally allowed the approval by a 57-41 vote.

The effect of WATT's appointment on the performance royalty bill he leaves behind in the House is unclear.  Rep. JUDY CHU (D-CA) remains co-sponsor of the bill, H.R. 3219, the Free Market Royalty Act.

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