California Bans Blasting Ads on Netflix, YouTube, and Other Streaming Platforms

California has passed a new law that forces streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, and YouTube to keep their ads at the same volume as the shows and movies people are watching. Governor Gavin Newsom signed the bill on Monday, and it will take effect in July 2026.

The new legislation, known as Bill 576, was introduced by California State Senator Tom Umberg earlier this year. Umberg said the idea came from a real-life problem: one of his staffers complained that loud streaming ads were disturbing the sleep of his newborn child.

“Every exhausted parent who’s finally gotten a baby to sleep, only to have a blaring streaming ad undo all that hard work,” Umberg explained.

Loud ads are more than just annoying—they can interrupt quiet moments, startle viewers, and even disrupt sleep. Many people have noticed that commercials on streaming platforms often blast at a much higher volume than the content, making it uncomfortable to watch.

The law is based on the CALM Act, a federal rule that limits loud commercials on TV. That act does not cover streaming services, leaving a gap that Bill 576 now fills.

Governor Newsom emphasized the importance of the new rule, saying, “We heard Californians loud and clear, and what’s clear is that they don’t want commercials at a volume any louder than the level at which they were previously enjoying a program. By signing SB 576, California is dialing down this inconvenience across streaming platforms.”

Because California is a major player in the entertainment industry, this law could influence other states or even set a national standard for streaming ads. Viewers can expect a more consistent and comfortable volume experience when the law goes into effect.

This is a welcome change. Loud ads have been a frustrating problem for years, and it’s about time streaming platforms are held to the same rules as traditional TV. What do you think about California’s new law on streaming ads? Share your thoughts in the comments.