A House Energy and Commerce subcommittee passed bipartisan legislation Thursday that would force automakers to equip new vehicles with AM radio capabilities.
The Subcommittee on Innovation, Data and Commerce passed the “AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act 2024,” H.R. 8449, by voice vote. Subcommittee Chair Gus Bilirakis (R-Fla.) sponsored the bill with full committee ranking member Frank Pallone (D-N.J.).
“Our constituents should have quick access to critical information, so they make timely and potential lifesaving decisions to evacuate, stay in place, seek shelter, or contact first responders,” Bilirakis said.
Despite the bipartisan nature of the bill, Bilirakis faulted the Biden administration’s push for electric vehicles. Some EV manufacturers have cited technical difficulties with offering AM radio.
