HR 979119th CongressIntroduced

AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act of 2025

Introduced: Feb 5, 2025

Sponsor: Rep. Bilirakis, Gus M. [R-FL-12] (R-Florida)

InfrastructureTechnology & Innovation

Standard Summary

Comprehensive overview in 1-2 paragraphs

The AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act of 2025 requires the Secretary of Transportation to mandate that all new passenger vehicles sold in the United States include AM radio receivers as standard equipment. The bill aims to preserve AM radio access in vehicles as an essential component of the nation's emergency alert system (IPAWS). The legislation gives manufacturers 2-3 years to comply (4 years for smaller manufacturers producing fewer than 40,000 vehicles annually) and includes a 10-year sunset provision. The bill also requires a Government Accountability Office study on emergency alert systems and mandates periodic reviews of the rule's effectiveness.

Key Points

1Mandatory AM Radio Installation: Requires devices capable of receiving AM broadcast signals to be installed as standard equipment in all new passenger vehicles manufactured, imported, or sold in the United States after the rule's effective date
2Implementation Timeline: Manufacturers have 2-3 years to comply, with an extended 4-year timeline for smaller manufacturers (those producing 40,000 or fewer vehicles in 2022)
3Interim Labeling Requirement: During the transition period, manufacturers must clearly label vehicles without AM radio capability and cannot charge extra fees for AM radio access
4Emergency Alert Focus: The bill emphasizes AM radio's role in the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) for reaching the public during emergencies
5Sunset Provision: The rule automatically expires 10 years after enactment, requiring Congress to reauthorize if continued beyond that period

Impact Areas

Automotive Manufacturers: Must redesign vehicle audio systems to include AM radio receivers, potentially affecting electric vehicle manufacturers who have been removing AM radio due to electromagnetic interference concernsPublic Safety and Emergency Management: Maintains AM radio as a backup emergency communication channel capable of reaching drivers during natural disasters, national emergencies, or infrastructure failuresConsumers: Ensures continued free access to AM radio content and emergency alerts without additional subscription fees, though may slightly increase vehicle base pricesBroadcasting Industry: Protects AM radio stations' audience reach and relevance, particularly for news, talk radio, and emergency broadcastingState and Local Governments: Preempts state and local regulations on AM radio requirements in vehicles, establishing federal uniformity

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