Sen. Markley Asks Auto Manufacturers to Keep AM Radio

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, December 1, 2022 | 6:35pm CT

U.S. Congress

Senator Edward Markey (MA) sent a letter to twenty car manufacturers Thursday requesting they maintain AM radio in their vehicles, including new EV models. In his letter, Senator Markey explained that consumers still value AM radio and stressed that free broadcast radio is a critical, reliable channel for local, state and federal government officials -- including the President of the United States, governors, mayors and emergency management and public safety officers -- to communicate with the public.

NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt said, "NAB thanks Sen. Markey for urging automakers to ensure broadcast AM radio is available and accessible in their vehicles. For decades, drivers and passengers have benefitted from and relied upon broadcast radio's unique relationship with the car, tuning in to their favorite stations for news, traffic, weather and entertainment while on the road. Free, over-the-air radio is critically important to our nation's emergency communications infrastructure, offering up-to-the-minute news, lifesaving information and lifeline alerting that keeps Americans out of harm's way when disaster strikes.

"Local radio has a vital place in the auto dashboard and broadcasters remain committed to collaborating with auto manufacturers to address interference and any other concerns that prohibit listeners from easily accessing this essential service."