Spann-Cooper Advocates for Preserving AM Radio in Cars

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, April 30, 2024

Melody Spann-Cooper

Melody Spann-Cooper, chairwoman and CEO of Midway Broadcasting Corporation, testified on behalf of the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) at a hearing held by the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Innovation, Data and Commerce titled, "Preserving Americans' Access to AM Radio." on Tuesday. NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt lauded Spann-Cooper's role at the hearing, and thanked members of Congress for continuing to shine a light on this important issue.

"NAB appreciates the leadership of Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers, Ranking Member Frank Pallone, Subcommittee Chairman Gus Bilirakis and Ranking Member Jan Schakowsky in organizing this important hearing spotlighting the enduring value of AM radio," said LeGeyt. "As Melody made abundantly clear today, AM radio is vital to communities across the country not only for the cultural, news and sports programming that 82 million American rely on, but also because it is a critical lifeline during public safety emergencies."

He added, "America's broadcasters are grateful to the subcommittee members and other lawmakers who have voiced staunch support for preserving AM radio in cars. It's a lifeline in emergencies and the backbone of the Emergency Alert System. We look forward to continuing our work with all committee members to ensure this vital communications medium remains accessible to listeners across the country."

Support for AM radio access continues to build in both chambers of Congress, uniting policymakers at a time of intense partisanship in Washington. Sens. Ed Markey (MA) and Ted Cruz (TX) announced that more than 60 senators are supporting the AM for Every Vehicle Act. There are 247 co-sponsors of the bill in the House of Representatives.