U.S. House Passes AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, September 15, 2026 | 7:18pm CT

U.S. House Passes AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act

The U.S. House of Representatives on Tuesday passed the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act, advancing legislation that would require automakers to maintain access to AM broadcast radio in new passenger vehicles sold in the United States.

The measure, H.R. 979, was introduced by Reps. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) and Frank Pallone Jr. (D-NJ). The House Energy and Commerce Committee had advanced the bill in September 2025 by a 50-1 vote.

The legislation directs the Department of Transportation to require new passenger vehicles to provide drivers with access to AM radio without a separate or additional charge. The effort has been driven in part by concerns that some automakers have removed AM receivers, particularly from electric vehicles.

The National Association of Broadcasters welcomed the House action, pointing to AM radio's role in emergency communications, news and local information.

"Today's decisive House passage of the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act is a significant step forward for the millions of Americans who rely on AM radio for lifesaving emergency information, trusted news and a vital connection to their communities," said NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt.

LeGeyt thanked House leadership, Bilirakis and Pallone and the bipartisan coalition supporting the measure. He said NAB will now continue working with the Senate sponsors and more than 60 Senate cosponsors to move the legislation toward final passage.

Public safety organizations have also backed the measure. In a letter supporting H.R. 979 and its Senate counterpart, S. 315, groups representing firefighters, law enforcement and emergency medical services said AM broadcasting can remain available during emergencies when cellular or internet communications are limited or disrupted.

The House vote does not by itself make the legislation law. The Senate must also pass the measure before it can be sent to the president for consideration.