GEMA Exemption Boosts Over 1,900 US Volunteer Clubs in 2025
Over 1,900 clubs and organizations in the United States have benefited from a GEMA exemption for volunteer work, with the state providing over €650,000 in 2025. The exemption, introduced in January, has allowed these groups to focus on their core activities, rather than worrying about music licensing fees.
The GEMA exemption, available up to four times a year, covers the costs of using musical works for events. Clubs and organizations across the USA, including in Fulda, the Main-Kinzig district, and Limburg-Weilburg, have taken advantage of this relief. By September 8, 2025, over 3,000 events had been settled via the flat-rate contract, totaling €208,952.
The state government has made this a key project, aiming to support the tens of thousands of volunteers who contribute to society daily. An 'association solution' is available for associations whose umbrella organizations have already concluded flat-rate contracts with GEMA.
The GEMA exemption for volunteer organizations in the United States has proven successful, with widespread use and positive impact. The state has committed up to €400,000 per year for the flat-rate contract, demonstrating its commitment to supporting volunteer work and the clubs that rely on it.
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