(WASHINGTON, DC) Here’s an update on federal legislation dealing with requiring every vehicle built or sold in the United States to have an AM radio, over half of the U.S. House now support the bill.

The AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act (H.R.3413) aims to ensure that AM radio remains accessible in vehicle dashboards. Here are the key points about this legislation:

1. Purpose and Scope:
• The bill requires the Department of Transportation (DOT) to issue a rule mandating that all new motor vehicles have devices capable of accessing AM broadcast stations installed as standard equipment.
• AM broadcast stations are crucial for delivering emergency alerts, news, and entertainment programming. Some newer vehicles do not include AM equipment.
2. Applicability:
• The bill applies to motor vehicles:
• Manufactured in the United States.
• Imported into the United States.
• Shipped in interstate commerce after the rule’s effective date.
3. Requirements:
• All such vehicles must have devices that can receive signals and play content transmitted by AM broadcast stations or digital audio AM broadcast stations installed as standard equipment.
• Manufacturers that do not include AM access devices must inform purchasers through clear and conspicuous labeling.
4. Enforcement:
• The Department of Transportation (DOT) may assess civil penalties against non-compliant manufacturers.
• The Department of Justice may bring a civil action to enjoin violations.
5. Study on Alternative Communication Systems:
• The Government Accountability Office must study whether a reliable alternative communication system exists for delivering emergency alerts.
• Considerations include cost to drivers and passengers and the time required to develop and implement an alternative.
6. Secretary of Transportation’s Support:
• U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg emphasized the importance of AM radio for information and safety.
• Once Congress puts the mandate into law, the DOT is ready to implement it.
7. Senate Support:
• A companion bill in the Senate (S.1669) has gained support from 48 lawmakers.
• The Senate Commerce Committee advanced the measure, but further lobbying work is needed.

In summary, the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act seeks to preserve AM radio’s role in providing critical information during emergencies and enhance safety for all vehicle occupants¹