AM Radio Bill Added to House Transportation Package

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, May 21, 2026 | 12:35pm CT

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National Association of Broadcasters President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt praised the House Committee on Energy and Commerce for including the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act in its surface transportation reauthorization package, marking another step forward for the bipartisan legislation aimed at preserving AM radio in automobiles.

In a statement released Wednesday, LeGeyt thanked committee leaders including Chairman Brett Guthrie, Representative Gus Bilirakis, and Ranking Member Frank Pallone for supporting the proposal.

"NAB applauds the House Committee on Energy and Commerce for including the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act in its surface transportation reauthorization package," LeGeyt said. "As lawmakers consider policies affecting America's transportation infrastructure, ensuring continued access to AM radio in vehicles remains essential for public safety."

The legislation would require automakers to maintain AM radio receivers in new vehicles, an issue that gained national attention after several electric vehicle manufacturers began removing AM capability from some models because of concerns about electromagnetic interference and changing consumer listening habits.

Supporters of the bill argue AM radio remains critical for emergency communications, particularly in rural communities and during severe weather events when cellular and internet service may be disrupted. According to NAB, more than 82 million Americans listen to AM radio each month.

The measure has steadily gained bipartisan backing in Congress. As of September 2025, the legislation had secured 280 House co-sponsors and 61 Senate co-sponsors -- surpassing the Senate's filibuster-proof threshold. The Senate version is led by Ted Cruz and Ed Markey, while Bilirakis and Pallone lead the House effort.

The bill has also received support from more than 125 organizations, including the National Emergency Management Association, American Farm Bureau Federation, AARP, SAG-AFTRA, and the National Association of Black Owned Broadcasters.

Advocates for the legislation have emphasized AM radio's role in the nation's Emergency Alert System infrastructure and its importance during natural disasters and other emergencies.

LeGeyt said NAB is urging Congress to move quickly on the proposal. "Leaders on both sides of the aisle recognize AM radio's unique and indispensable role in keeping Americans informed, especially in times of emergency," he said.