California Bans Loud Commercials On Netflix, Hulu, And Other Streaming Services
California bans loud commercials on Netflix, Hulu, and other streaming services under a new state law designed to give viewers a more peaceful streaming experience. Governor Gavin Newsom signed the bill (SB 576) on Monday, marking a major step in regulating ad volume on digital platforms — something that has frustrated users for years.
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Starting July 1, 2026, platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Prime Video will be prohibited from transmitting ads that play louder than the content they accompany. In simple terms, your movie nights and binge sessions will no longer be interrupted by sudden, blaring commercials.
Why California Passed The Law
Governor Newsom said the state is responding to what Californians have been asking for — a consistent and comfortable viewing experience.
“We heard Californians loud and clear,” Newsom stated. “They don’t want commercials louder than the shows they’re watching.”
Until now, these streaming services weren’t covered under previous federal rules that limited the volume of traditional TV ads. By signing this bill, California is closing that gap — ensuring that the same standards apply to both broadcast and online platforms.
Modeled After Federal Regulations
The legislation takes inspiration from the Commercial Advertisement Loudness Mitigation (CALM) Act, which Congress passed in 2010. That law required cable and satellite TV providers to keep ad volumes consistent with regular programming.
However, the CALM Act didn’t extend to online streaming platforms — a major loophole in the era of Netflix, Hulu, and other ad-supported services. California’s new law now fills that gap at the state level, potentially setting a national precedent if other states follow suit.
What Streaming Services Need To Do
Under the new law, streaming companies will have to adjust their audio standards and ensure that ads meet the same decibel levels as shows and movies. This could mean re-engineering their ad delivery systems or collaborating with advertisers to maintain uniform sound levels.
Industry experts believe most major platforms will comply before the July 2026 deadline to avoid penalties and user backlash. For viewers, this could mean fewer sudden jumps in volume — and a smoother, more pleasant streaming experience.
What It Means For Viewers
For everyday users, this move signals a small but meaningful improvement in the streaming experience. As more services rely on ads to fund lower-cost or free subscription tiers, California’s ban on loud commercials ensures that ad-supported streaming feels less intrusive.
If successful, the law could inspire similar regulations across the U.S., standardizing ad volume for both traditional and digital media.
California’s decision shows how states can take the lead in addressing consumer concerns around digital content regulation. As streaming becomes the dominant form of entertainment, laws like this one reflect how policymakers are catching up to the realities of modern media consumption.
By tackling something as simple — yet universally annoying — as loud commercials, California may have set the stage for a quieter, more viewer-friendly streaming future.
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