Verkhovna Rada prohibits Russian music from being played in public

MOSCOW. June 20 (Interfax) - The Verkhovna Rada has prohibited music with Russian origins from being played by broadcasters or in public transport and has increased the quota for Ukrainian music on television and the radio.

Bill7273-D passed by 303 votes at a plenary meeting on Sunday, Ukrainian media outlets said with the reference to a statement made by Holos faction member Yaroslav Zheleznyak on social media.

The bill bans public performance, display or demonstration of music performed or created by citizens of the Russian Federation. Television or radio channels that disobey the order will pay the national budget a fine in the amount of 10% of the license fee.

In addition, the bill bans tours of Russian performers, as well as music and other sound signals in transport, except for information about the trip, and music played in the taxi without the consent of all passengers.

The bill envisages the listing of Russian performers condemning the special operation in Ukraine in order to allow the playing of their works. The National Security and Defense Council will be updating the list.

The bill increases the quota for songs in Ukrainian from 35% to 40%. Television and radio broadcasters are compelled to ensure compliance with the norm during the day, as well as during every interval between 7 a.m. and 2 p.m. and between 3 p.m. and 10 p.m. In addition, the Verkhovna Rada has increased the number of radio programs daily aired in the official language from 60% to 75%.