Congress Pushes to Keep AM Radio in New Cars
The U.S. House of Representatives has passed a bill requiring all new vehicles to include AM radio. The auto industry opposes the move, but the legislation has bipartisan backing.
A bill requiring all new vehicles sold in the United States to be equipped with AM radio has passed the House of Representatives and is heading to the Senate. H.R. 979, known as the "AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act of 2025," has garnered significant bipartisan support, aiming to prevent automakers from phasing out the traditional broadcast technology.
Proponents argue that AM radio remains a vital communication tool, particularly for emergency alerts and local programming. The National Association of Broadcasters estimates that over 80 million Americans listen to AM radio monthly. Supporters highlight its role in providing local news, cultural content, and serving as an entry point for minority ownership in broadcasting.
However, the automotive industry has raised concerns about the feasibility and cost of mandating AM radio. The Alliance for Automotive Innovation points to technological challenges, especially with electric vehicles, where EV systems can interfere with AM signals. They estimate that mitigation efforts could cost $3.8 billion and potentially impact battery range.
Critics within the auto industry have compared the mandate to requiring outdated technology like 8-track players. They argue that consumers have shifted to digital audio options and that mandating AM radio imposes unnecessary costs and design constraints.
The bill's future in the Senate and at the White House is uncertain, despite support from groups like AARP and the American Farm Bureau Federation. The outcome will determine whether AM radio remains a standard feature in new vehicles.