Critics Don't Like AM Radio Act "Sunset" Clause

The House Energy & Commerce Committee voted 50-1 to advance the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act (H.R. 979) to the full House, but a last-minute compromise shortening the AM radio mandate in vehicles from 10 to eight years sparked backlash from broadcasters.

John Catsimatidis, CEO of Red Apple Media and owner of WABC New York (770), called the eight-year sunset “absurd” and a threat to public safety.

“AM radio, including 77WABC, delivers critical emergency alerts,” he said. “Tornadoes, hurricanes, and disasters won’t stop, and this sunset undermines Americans’ safety. With 300 House members and 61 senators backing the bill without a sunset, Congress must prioritize citizens’ access to vital AM news.”

The bill mandates the Secretary of Transportation to enforce AM radio access in vehicles, with fines for noncompliance and bans on extra charges. It also tasks the Government Accountability Office with assessing if alternative systems can match AM’s emergency alert capabilities.

Committee Chair Brett Guthrie (R-KY) justified the eight-year limit due to fast-evolving automotive technology, while Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), the bill’s sponsor, called the compromise essential to move the legislation forward, noting it speeds up DOT rulemaking and compliance. The change secured House Republican leadership’s commitment to a floor vote.