Why it Matters
Universal Music Group’s new patent licensing entity, Music IP Holdings Inc., is making its first foray into federal lobbying. The company has retained ACG Advocacy LLC as part of a new client registration filed July 17, 2025. This strategic move comes as Congress actively debates AI’s impact on copyrighted works, aligning perfectly with the ongoing discussions surrounding major legislation targeting AI use of protected content.
By the Numbers
Music IP Holdings has no prior lobbying history or expenditures. The company has assembled a three-person team from ACG Advocacy:
- Christian S. Israel: Veteran IP lobbyist representing Copyright Alliance and SoundExchange.
- Jamie Nicole Susskind: Former Legislative Director to Sen. Marsha Blackburn.
- Sarah Kohn: Copyright specialist with experience representing Zuffa LLC on AI issues.
Broader Context
Music IP Holdings emerged from Universal Music Group’s partnership with Liquidax Capital, focusing on licensing AI patents and technologies developed by UMG. Meanwhile, Congress is grappling with how AI companies use copyrighted material to train their models, with multiple hearings featuring creators arguing that their work is being stolen for AI training.
The Agenda
The registration lists two key issue areas: “Copyright Reform” and “AI Policy.” Music IP Holdings will likely advocate for stronger IP protections and transparency requirements as its business model depends on licensing-based frameworks for AI use of copyrighted works.
Competitive Landscape
Music IP Holdings is entering a crowded field. The Recording Industry Association of America lobbies on the NO FAKES Act. Additionally, performance rights organizations ASCAP and BMI are pushing for AI transparency, while tech companies like OpenAI advocate for flexible “fair use” interpretations. The Computer & Communications Industry Association represents broader tech interests on copyright modernization.
Between The Lines
Key legislation is directly impacting Music IP Holdings’ interests. The bipartisan NO FAKES Act would create federal right of publicity protections, while Sen. Marsha Blackburn champions the TRAIN Act, which requires AI companies to disclose copyrighted training materials. Additionally, Sen. Richard Blumenthal has introduced legislation to ban AI companies from training on copyright works without permission. Recent Senate Judiciary hearings examined AI and mass ingestion of copyrighted works.
The Bottom Line
Music IP Holdings strategically timed its lobbying entry during peak congressional AI activity. The combination of the team’s IP expertise and relationships in the Republican Senate positions them optimally. Their success depends on distinguishing patent-focused interests within broader music industry coalitions while countering powerful tech sector lobbying.
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