Please note that all my articles are for informational purposes only and not legal advice. I assume no liability for the content of my articles. The articles may be out of date, the legal situation may have changed, or the specific situation in a case may need to be assessed differently. A binding consultation can only be given by me directly in the individual case. Take advantage of my free brief consultation!
Twitch streamers and changes to the Interstate Broadcasting Treaty
Due to some inquiries from today about “yellow letters” for streamers on Twitch, I would like to refer to my last article again. According to my current knowledge, the amendments to Section 20b of the Interstate Broadcasting Treaty will come into force on May 1, 2019, which is why, from that date, there will only be a notification obligation and the state media authorities will have to issue clearance certificates for gaming streamers up to a certain size.
Up to this point, of course, old law still applies formally, but it also contains quite controversial requirements and interpretations.
Professional communication with the relevant authorities or, in the worst case, legal stalling tactics, should be able to save most affected streamers through May. In any case, an economically sensible approach is appropriate here.
In purely formal terms, administrative law remedies are of course also conceivable. However, this should be well thought out and in no case be carried out without professional advice.
Marian Härtel is a lawyer and entrepreneur specializing in copyright law, competition law and IT/IP law, with a focus on games, esports, media and blockchain.