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US AM radio vehicle mandate legislation

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2026-09-19 17:59 UTC → 2026-10-04 21:12 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the bipartisan AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act (H.R. 979) via a voice vote. The legislation seeks to protect AM radio access in vehicles, which broadcasters argue is essential for providing “lifesaving emergency information and news to the public.” If the bill passes the Senate and is signed into law, the Department of Transportation would be responsible for creating rules to mandate standard AM radio reception in all new vehicles sold in the United States. Supporters, including the National Association of Broadcasters and AARP, emphasize that AM radio is a vital component of the Emergency Broadcast System, particularly in rural areas or during natural disasters when cellular and internet services may be unavailable. The mandate faces opposition from some automakers who cite costs and potential electrical interference in electric vehicles (EVs). While companies such as Tesla, BMW, Mazda, and Volkswagen have removed AM radio from certain EV models, Ford reversed a previous decision to remove the feature following the introduction of this legislation. The bill is currently advancing through Congress and awaiting Senate action, where a companion measure has already received support. The legislation specifically seeks to require automakers to include AM radio in all new vehicles at no additional cost to consumers. While manufacturers like Rivian and Volvo have also been noted for removing or limiting the technology due to interference from electric power systems, the Alliance for Automotive Innovation has opposed the mandate, arguing that “analog AM radio is not essential to motor vehicle safety.”

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