Washington, D.C. — The AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act took a crucial step forward Wednesday, passing out of the House Energy and Commerce Committee by a bipartisan vote. The bill aims to make AM radio standard in all new passenger vehicles sold in the United States.
The Act now heads to the full House for debate. Supporters of the legislation argue that AM radio is essential, not only for entertainment but also for delivering emergency alerts during crises. The bill is seen as critical to maintaining access to emergency information, especially in areas with limited cell service.
According to the Act, the Department of Transportation (DOT) will mandate that all new vehicles include AM radio. Manufacturers that fail to comply could face civil penalties. Some newer vehicles have already eliminated AM radio, a trend the legislation seeks to reverse.
The bill represents a bipartisan effort to protect a longstanding technology that could prove life-saving in emergencies.
