Yes, it is true. The problem is SoundExchange, who collect fees in the USA on behalf of the record companies. They have been allowed to increase their fees dramatically, with further increases for the next few years, and backdated to Jan 06.

There is an appeal procedure, but it is not looking good. Most internet stations, which are often run as a hobby, look doomed if they are licenced in the USA.

Here in the UK, it has always been too expensive, with ridiculous reporting requirements (how many times has each song been played, how many people were listening, and which countries were they in?)

Enjoy them while you can.