Kansas House Endorses AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, March 27, 2024

Kansas Association of Broadcasters

The Kansas House made a significant show of support for Kansas broadcasters and AM radio by passing House Concurrent Resolution 5026, with a 109-14 vote. The resolution endorses the Federal AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act. The measure, proposed in the 118th Congress, aims to enhance access to AM radio by requiring that all new vehicles sold in the U.S. come equipped with AM radio receivers.

Kansas Association of Broadcasters President Allison Mazzei said, "The passage of this resolution tells Congress that Kansans want AM radio in vehicles. Radio serves as a cornerstone of communication, providing essential information and ensuring public safety across our state."

Broadcaster and state representative Ken Rahjes was the lead sponsor of the resolution. "Bad weather or just information, where do you turn? You turn to the radio," he said. "What this resolution does is send notice to our delegation to support the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act."

This legislation recognizes the enduring importance of AM radio in providing emergency information and ensuring nationwide access to essential broadcasts. By ensuring that every vehicle on the road is equipped with AM radio capabilities, this act would bolster the effectiveness of the National Emergency Alert System and help safeguard the well-being of all Americans, including those in rural and underserved areas.

The bill comes as a response to automakers removing AM radio as a feature in electric vehicles and from some new models of internal combustion engine vehicles. Removing AM radio from cars could jeopardize the National Emergency Alert System infrastructure. When internet and cell phone towers go down, AM radio remains. Nothing extends further or is more reliable than AM radio. AM radio is also vital to agricultural communities, providing weather updates, crop reports, and other information to farmers and ranchers.

Currently, the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act has 226 co-sponsors in the U.S. House and 48 in the Senate. The Kansas Association of Broadcasters has diligently advocated for the bill, meeting with every member of our state's federal delegation to garner support for this crucial legislation.