ICYMI: Pappas-Backed AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act Passed House

The House passed the bipartisan AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act, legislation cosponsored by Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01). This legislation would ensure Americans continue to have access to AM radio in all new vehicles.

“In addition to being a source of news, music, and community connection, AM radio is a lifeline in emergencies for Americans to get important information and stay safe. This bipartisan legislation will help make sure people do not lose access to this free service in their cars,” said Congressman Pappas.

More than 50 million Americans listen to AM broadcast radio every month, and it remains one of the most reliable ways to reach the public during emergencies because it can travel long distances and reach broad geographic areas. AM radio is the backbone behind America’s National Public Warning System, which provides emergency-alert and warning information to the public during major natural disasters, extreme weather conditions, chemical incidents, health emergencies, and other domestic threats, often when cellular and Internet networks fail.

Despite the clear public safety uses of AM broadcast radio, many manufacturers stopped including it in their vehicles because they did not want to spend the minimal funds to ensure public safety during emergencies.

The AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act will require the Department of Transportation to issue a rule mandating that all automakers include AM radio as standard equipment in their vehicles, at no additional cost to consumers.