The Fight to Preserve AM Radio in Every Vehicle

As Congress moves closer to adjournment, efforts to preserve AM radio in vehicles are gaining critical momentum. The “AM Radio For Every Vehicle Act,” which ensures that AM radio remains standard in all cars, is now headed for a full vote in the House of Representatives. After 419 days in progress, the House Energy and Commerce Committee approved the bill by a wide margin (45-2), moving it one step closer to becoming law.

The bipartisan bill, H.R. 8449, requires that all vehicles made or sold in the U.S. include AM radios as a free safety feature. Advocates of the bill emphasize that AM radio is a vital communication tool during emergencies, providing reliable updates when other systems fail. Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ) cited Superstorm Sandy as a prime example of AM radio’s importance in keeping communities connected during disasters.

Support for the bill is growing, with 262 co-sponsors in the House and a supermajority of 63 in the Senate. National Religious Broadcasters (NRB) and the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) continue to champion the cause, urging lawmakers to act swiftly. NAB CEO Curtis LeGeyt highlighted AM radio’s “indispensable service” to the public, especially in times of crisis.

However, not all lawmakers are in favor. Rep. John James (R-MI), whose district is home to major auto manufacturers, expressed opposition, arguing that the legislation was unnecessary. His attempt to amend the bill to allow for a repeal of the AM mandate was rejected.

As time runs short in this legislative session, it is crucial that this bill passes before the year ends. If not, it will need to be reintroduced in the next session of Congress.

For Christian broadcasters, like those at KBRITE Radio, the preservation of AM radio is essential not just for emergency communication, but also for continuing to offer faith-based content to their loyal listeners. NRB encourages broadcasters to take action by reaching out to legislators and airing public service announcements that highlight AM radio’s importance.