The AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act is bipartisan legislation aimed at ensuring that AM radio remains a standard, free feature in all new passenger vehicles sold in the United States. It addresses concerns that some automakers (particularly for electric vehicles) have removed AM broadcast receivers due to interference issues or design choices, potentially limiting access to emergency alerts, news, weather, and public safety information delivered via AM stations—especially critical during disasters when other systems may fail.
Key Details
- Bill Numbers and Sponsors:
- House version: H.R. 979 (119th Congress, 2025-2026), introduced February 5, 2025, by Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) and co-led by Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ).
- Senate version: S. 315, introduced January 29, 2025 (or late January), by Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Sen. Ed Markey (D-MA).
- Main Provisions:
- Requires the Secretary of Transportation (via the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, or NHTSA) to issue a rule mandating that all new passenger motor vehicles include devices capable of receiving and playing AM broadcast signals (including digital audio AM) as standard equipment.
- AM access must be free (no extra fees, surcharges, or payments), easily accessible to the driver, and apply to vehicles manufactured in the U.S., imported, or shipped in interstate commerce after the rule's effective date.
- Consults with the FCC and FEMA to ensure alignment with public safety needs (e.g., integration with emergency alert systems like IPAWS).
- During the interim period (between enactment and the rule's effective date), vehicles without AM radio must be clearly labeled to inform consumers.
- Provides compliance flexibility for smaller manufacturers (e.g., extra time for those producing under certain thresholds).
- Includes a potential sunset or review period (amendments in committee shortened one aspect from 10 to 8 years in some versions).
- Rationale and Support:
- Proponents (led by the National Association of Broadcasters, or NAB, plus groups like AARP, emergency managers, farm bureaus, and others) emphasize AM radio's reliability for free, over-the-air emergency broadcasts—reaching rural areas, during power outages, or when cell/internet services are down. Polling shows strong public support (e.g., 83% view it as critical for safety).
- The bill has overwhelming bipartisan backing: Over 300 cosponsors in the House (supermajority) and 60+ in the Senate (filibuster-proof). Supported by more than 125 organizations.
Advanced through key committees: Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee (reported out favorably, e.g., in early 2025 with strong votes); House Energy and Commerce Committee (advanced 50-1 in September 2025, with report H. Rept. 119-379).
- Placed on the House Union Calendar (November 12, 2025) awaiting full floor vote.
- As of early 2026, broadcasters and supporters (including NAB) are pushing for a House floor vote soon, with optimism from leadership (e.g., Speaker Mike Johnson supportive). No final passage yet in either chamber, and it has not become law. Auto industry lobbying continues against it, citing costs or interference concerns, but momentum remains high with presidential signals of support in recent interviews.
- It builds on prior versions (e.g., from the 118th Congress) that advanced in committees but did not pass before session end.