Seize the Moment for Saving AM Radio Broadcasts
America's quirky auditory wavelength, AM radio, is set to thrive thanks to a strong push in the legal sphere. The "AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act" is a bipartisan bill, with Senators Edward Markey (D-Mass) and Ted Cruz (R-Texas) leading the charge. This bill, enjoying the backing of 60 U.S. Senators and 246 House co-sponsors, is poised to become law.
As the former dominant broadcasting channel, AM radio has faced tough times in recent years, losing popularity as fewer individuals tune in. In response, car manufacturers have made efforts to phase out AM radio availability in newer models. However, if the bill currently before Congress passes, this move will be averted, and the inclusion of AM radio in new cars will become a federal mandate. So, pick up your phone and voice your opinion to your senator.
In a joint statement, Markey and Cruz declared, "Democrats and Republicans are in tune with the millions of listeners, thousands of broadcasters, and countless emergency management officials who rely on AM radio in their vehicles. AM radio is a lifeline for people in every corner of the United States to get news, sports, and local updates in times of emergencies. Our bill ensures this essential tool doesn't fade away on the dial."
Some have attempted to make AM radio a political football, but it's beyond politics – it's just a radio frequency, hosting conservative talk shows, like FM radio, Sirius XM, and Twitter. Regardless of your political leanings, don't let a handful of right-wing broadcasters put you off. AM radio is a blast! It's bizarre. It's intriguing. Tune in and discover the unexpected!
The reason car manufacturers aren't keen on supporting AM radio is obvious: it adds a little more cost to their R&D. To that, I say: so what? Tesla, cough up the dough! Give Americans the strange radio we deserve!
Insights:
Current Status:
With 60 Senate cosponsors, including Markey and Cruz, and the House version boasting 129 cosponsors, the "AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act" has gained a filibuster-proof supermajority in the Senate, making it highly likely to pass [1][3][4].
Purpose and Implications:
The bill aims to mandate that all new passenger vehicles sold in the U.S. include AM radio receivers at no additional cost [2][3]. This push is driven by the critical role AM radio plays in public safety and emergency communications, especially during natural disasters when other communication networks may falter [2].
Potential Impact:
- Public Safety: Ensuring AM radios are in all vehicles could boost public safety by preserving access to essential emergency alerts and information during crises [2][5].
- Media Diversity: AM radio supports a wide variety of formats, including religious, political, and niche programming [5].
- Automaker Compliance: Larger automakers must adhere to the mandate within two years, potentially affecting the design and expenses associated with electric vehicles [5].
- The bipartisan "AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act," championed by Senators Edward Markey and Ted Cruz, is garnering immense support due to its filibuster-proof supermajority in the Senate, with a high likelihood of passing.
- Although AM radio is phased out in newer car models due to concerns over cost, if this bill becomes law, it will make the inclusion of AM radio in new cars mandatory, ensuring its continued presence.
- With its intriguing and bizarre broadcasts, AM radio offers an admirable blend of diverse programming, from religious and political content to niche radio shows, hosting a unique aspect in the broader technology landscape of the future.
- Despite certain automakers' reluctance to invest in AM radio due to R&D costs, the bill's passage may inspire large corporations like Tesla to contribute to preserving this essential part of America's tech history, guaranteeing Americans continue to appreciate the unusual charm of AM radio.
