Can I use copyrighted music on my website in Wyoming? What are the requirements?

Based on the information provided in the Wyoming State Statutes, it is illegal to use copyrighted music without obtaining the proper license. According to WYST 40-13-103, no music licensing agency or copyright owner who is a member of such music licensing agency or who licenses the performing rights to his music through a music licensing agency shall license the use of, or in any manner whatsoever dispose of, in this state, the performing rights in or to any musical composition which has been copyrighted, and is the subject of a valid existing copyright under the laws of the United States or collect any compensation on account of any sale, license or other disposition, unless such music licensing agency and each copyright owner shall file annually with the secretary of state in duplicate a certified copy of each performing rights contract or license agreement made available from such music licensing agency or copyright owner to any user within the state.

Therefore, to use copyrighted music on your website in Wyoming, you must obtain the proper license from the music licensing agency or copyright owner. The licenses and fees made available pursuant to this article shall provide users with genuine economic choices between the various licenses and fees provided for application within the state of Wyoming [WYST 40-13-105].

It is important to note that any person or music licensing agency who violates this act is guilty of a high misdemeanor and upon conviction is punishable for each violation by a fine of not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00), or by imprisonment in the state prison for a period of one (1) year, or both [WYST 40-13-113].

In summary, to use copyrighted music on your website in Wyoming, you must obtain the proper license from the music licensing agency or copyright owner and comply with the licensing requirements outlined in the Wyoming State Statutes.

Jurisdiction

Wyoming

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