Congress is moving the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act toward a House floor vote. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise has scheduled consideration during the week of September 14.
What We Know: The AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act would require automakers to maintain AM radio access in new vehicles without charging consumers extra. The legislation first emerged in 2023, when Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ) and bipartisan lawmakers introduced H.R. 3413. The current version, H.R. 979, was introduced in 2025 by Reps. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) and Frank Pallone (D-NJ). Meanwhile, the Senate version is sponsored by Sens. Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Ed Markey (D-MA).
What They Said: “This is an important step forward for legislation that has earned overwhelming bipartisan support in Congress and across the country. We are grateful to House leadership and lead cosponsors Reps. Bilirakis and Pallone and Sens. Cruz and Markey, along with hundreds of lawmakers from both parties whose persistence and leadership have brought us to this moment.
“Our listeners have also made their voices heard loud and clear: AM radio is an indispensable lifeline during emergencies, a trusted source of news and information, and a vital connection for communities nationwide. Now is the time to finish the job. We urge every member of the House to vote to pass the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act and preserve access to this essential public safety resource in every vehicle.” -NAB President/CEO Curtis LeGeyt
What Remains Unclear: The House has yet to announce the specific day for the vote. Passage would also leave the legislation needing Senate action before reaching President Trump.
What It Means: The scheduled vote represents a significant development for broadcasters that have spent years lobbying Congress. The measure could prevent automakers from removing AM receivers as vehicle technology increasingly shifts toward digital platforms and streaming.
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