Sens. Edward Markey (D-MA) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) have reintroduced a bill calling for automakers to maintain AM radios in vehicles.
“As we witness more tragic climate change-induced disasters like the wildfires in Los Angeles, broadcast AM radio continues to be a critical tool for communication. AM radio is a lifeline for people across the country for news, sports, and especially emergency information,” Markey said in a press release. “Tens of millions of listeners across the country have made clear that they want AM radio to remain in their vehicles. Our AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act heeds their words and ensures that this essential tool doesn’t get lost on the dial.”
Cruz stated the bill would ensure Americans have a “reliable form of communication” during storms and power outages.
“AM radio has long been a haven for people to express differing viewpoints, allowing free speech and our robust democratic process to flourish for decades,” he said. “I am honored to once again partner with Sen. Markey on this bipartisan legislation on behalf of our constituents who depend on AM radio and public airwaves for access to news, music, talk, and emergency alerts.
The bill is co-sponsored by 40 senators.
Under the bill, the Secretary of Transportation would “issue a rule requiring access to AM broadcast stations in passenger motor vehicles, and for other purposes.”
Last year, the Board of Directors of the National Association of Farm Broadcasting (NAFB) sent a letter to congressional leaders detailing their support for the preservation of AM radios.
“Failure to approve this critical AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act will allow automakers to eliminate access to critical information to the people we serve. Rural and urban residents should not be forced to subscribe to an unreliable data stream for urgent information,” the letter said. “Access to radio becomes even more important for America’s producers and rural audiences in times of emergency. For those who work mostly out in the open, often miles from home, response time is critical especially in severe weather events.”
