Congress prepares vote on bill requiring AM antennas in all new cars

Lawmakers are poised to vote on the AM Radio For Every Vehicle Act, a bipartisan proposal that would require an AM antenna in every new car sold across the United States. With over 300 co-sponsors in the House and 60 in the Senate, supporters highlight the role of AM radio in delivering emergency warnings and preserving local, balanced conversation, citing stations such as WFMD in Frederick, Maryland. The station’s afternoon program, hosted by Tim May and Frank Mitchell, exemplifies the kind of cross-aisle dialogue that the bill seeks to protect.

Advocates also note that AM radio offers a resilient alternative should cyber attacks disrupt modern digital networks. Critics worry about government involvement in a commercial medium, but supporters argue the approach is preferable to direct public funding models. If enacted, the law would embed AM reception into the automotive market, ensuring continued access for drivers nationwide.