WASHINGTON – Citing AM radio as a crucial source of emergency alerts and free speech, U.S. Sen. Katie Britt helped introduce the bipartisan “AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act.”
The legislation, also introduced by Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Sen. Ed Markey (D-Mass.), would direct the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to require automakers to maintain AM broadcast radio in their new vehicles at no additional charge.
Following the senators’ introduction, the “AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act” advanced out of the Senate Commerce Committee by voice vote.
“I’m proud to be a cosponsor of the bipartisan AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act. Alabama communities rely on AM radio for life-saving information like severe weather updates, emergency alerts, and breaking news,” said Britt. “Congress must ensure AM radio continues to be available in vehicles across America. I’m grateful for my colleague Senator Cruz for prioritizing this legislation in the Senate Commerce Committee, and I look forward to this bill coming before the full Senate.
“Getting this enacted into law means helping keep Alabamians informed while on the road, from the Tennessee Valley to the sandy shores of the Gulf Coast of America.”
Broadcast AM radio is a crucial source of news, sports, weather, and emergency alerts for 47 million Americans every week. It serves as the most reliable and effective form of communication during emergencies.
As the backbone of the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s emergency alert system, AM radio allows public officials to reach more than 90% of the country.
“During weather disasters or power outages, AM radio is consistently the most reliable form of communication and is critical to keep millions of Texans safe,” Cruz said. “AM radio has long been a haven for people to express differing viewpoints, allowing free speech and our robust democratic process to flourish for decades.
“I am honored to once again partner with Sen. Markey on this bipartisan legislation on behalf of our constituents who depend on AM radio and public airwaves for access to news, music, talk, and emergency alerts.”
Britt was also a proud cosponsor of the “AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act” during the 118th Congress. Recently, the Alabama Broadcasters Association recognized Britt for her efforts to support this legislation.
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