Sen. Paul Blocks Passage of AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, December 5, 2023 | 5:55pm CT

U.S. Congress

U.S. Senate Commerce Committee Ranking Member Ted Cruz (R-TX) took to the Senate floor on Tuesday requesting unanimous consent to pass his bipartisan, bicameral AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act. The legislation, which he introduced with Sen. Ed Markey (D-MA), would require automakers to keep AM broadcast radio in vehicles, a tool they say is critical to keeping the American public safe in times of emergency. The bill, which was approved by the Senate Commerce Committee earlier this year, was on the verge of Senate passage before being objected to by Senator Rand Paul (R-KY).

In response to the effort NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt said, "NAB applauds Sens. Cruz, Markey and Lujan for going to the floor of the United States Senate today to seek final passage of the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act, again demonstrating their leadership and steadfast commitment to advancing this critical legislation.

"With 192 cosponsors in the House and 44 in the Senate, the bill has gained remarkable momentum, highlighting the widespread recognition of the importance of AM radio to the American people. This bipartisan collaboration reflects a shared dedication to ensuring that AM radio remains a dependable and accessible medium for all. We thank Senators Markey and Cruz for their continued leadership and support of AM radio listeners and look forward to continue working with them to pass this critical legislation."