Washington D.C. – U.S. Senators Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), and Ted Cruz (R-Texas) have introduced the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act, a bipartisan piece of legislation aimed at ensuring that AM broadcast radio remains a standard feature in all new vehicles, free of charge. The bill has already advanced out of the Senate Commerce Committee by a voice vote, with strong support from lawmakers who recognize the importance of AM radio for public safety and communication.
Senator Britt expressed her pride in cosponsoring the bill, emphasizing the role AM radio plays in providing critical, life-saving information to communities across Alabama. “Alabama communities rely on AM radio for life-saving information like severe weather updates, emergency alerts, and breaking news,” she said. “Congress must ensure AM radio continues to be available in vehicles across America.” Britt, who has supported similar initiatives in the past, also thanked Senator Cruz for his leadership in prioritizing the legislation.
AM radio serves a vital role in the U.S., particularly in emergencies, with an estimated 47 million Americans tuning in each week for news, weather, sports, and updates. The broadcast medium is a central component of the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) emergency alert system, which allows public officials to communicate with over 90% of the country during crises. AM radio has earned recognition for its reliability, particularly during power outages or severe weather events.
Senator Cruz highlighted the importance of AM radio in ensuring public safety during emergencies. “During weather disasters or power outages, AM radio is consistently the most reliable form of communication and is critical to keep millions of Texans safe,” Cruz said. He also underscored AM radio’s role in supporting free speech and the democratic process, providing a platform for diverse viewpoints.
The bill has garnered significant support, with the Alabama Broadcasters Association recently recognizing Senator Britt for her continued advocacy in support of AM radio. If enacted, the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act would mandate that automakers maintain AM radio capabilities in all new vehicles, reinforcing the importance of this communication tool for American drivers.
As the bill progresses through Congress, it is expected to continue receiving attention for its potential to enhance public safety and ensure that vital emergency alerts are accessible to all Americans, no matter where they are. The bill’s introduction reflects the lawmakers’ commitment to preserving AM radio as a crucial resource in the digital age.
