Washington, D.C. – The House Energy and Commerce Committee today advanced the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act (H.R. 979) during a full committee markup by a vote of 50-1. This action marks the next critical step in moving the bill to the House floor for a vote.
The markup came amid a surge of bipartisan support for the legislation. The bill has 299 cosponsors in the U.S. House of Representatives and 61 in the U.S. Senate — a filibuster-proof majority. Of the more than 6,000 bills introduced this Congress, only two bills have more cosponsors: one supporting veterans with disabilities and another commemorating the Miracle on Ice team. The AM radio bill ranks third overall.
New national polling further underscores this momentum. In a recent survey, 83% of respondents said they strongly support keeping AM radio in new cars so drivers can access free emergency warnings and public safety information while on the road. This powerful consensus reflects what broadcasters and first responders have long known: AM radio is a trusted lifeline in moments of crisis.
“Today’s decisive committee vote sends a clear message: AM radio remains essential to public safety, and every American deserves access to it in their car,” said NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt. “We thank Chairmen Guthrie and Bilirakis, Ranking Member Pallone and members of the committee for overwhelmingly advancing this bipartisan legislation. Policymakers and consumers alike recognize AM radio’s essential role in delivering emergency alerts and reliable information when it matters most. We urge House and Senate leadership to move swiftly to pass this bill and preserve this vital service for the American public.”
Background
The AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act is led by Reps. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) and Frank Pallone (D-NJ), along with Sens. Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Ed Markey (D-MA). The legislation is supported by more than 125 organizations, including the National Emergency Management Association, American Farm Bureau Federation, AARP, Native Public Media, SAG-AFTRA and the National Association of Black Owned Broadcasters.
Click here to learn more about the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act.
The National Association of Broadcasters is the premier advocacy association for America's broadcasters. NAB advances radio and television interests in legislative, regulatory and public affairs. Through advocacy, education and innovation, NAB enables broadcasters to best serve their communities, strengthen their businesses and seize new opportunities in the digital age. Learn more at nab.org.
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