The U.S. House of Representatives has enacted the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act, a significant development that mandates automakers to ensure access to AM broadcast radio in all new passenger vehicles sold within the United States. This legislation, designated as H.R. 979, was passed through a voice vote and is now set to proceed to the Senate.

The bill mandates the Department of Transportation, alongside the Federal Communications Commission and the Federal Emergency Management Agency, to create a requirement that AM broadcast receivers be included as standard equipment in new passenger vehicles.

The National Association of Broadcasters expressed support for the House decision, underscoring the critical role of AM radio in emergency communications, news dissemination, and local information delivery.

“The decisive passage of the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act by the House is a vital advancement for the millions of Americans who depend on AM radio for essential emergency information, reliable news, and an important connection to their communities,” stated NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt.

LeGeyt acknowledged the contributions of House leadership and the bill’s primary cosponsors, Reps. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) and Frank Pallone Jr. (D-NJ), along with the bipartisan coalition bolstering the initiative. He affirmed that NAB will persist in collaborating with the Senate bill’s sponsors and cosponsors to promote progress on the legislation.

Bob Pittman, Chairman and CEO of iHeartMedia, also commended the House action, deeming the passage “a notable achievement for public safety, local communities, and the millions of Americans who utilize AM radio daily.” This designation aligns with iHeartMedia’s corporate records and website.

Pittman emphasized that AM radio serves as a crucial source of local emergency updates, news, and weather alerts, particularly in circumstances of natural disasters, power outages, and other emergencies when various communication networks may fail.

“For over a century, broadcast radio has been a reliable resource for Americans in critical times,” Pittman remarked. “Today, during natural disasters, power outages, and other emergencies, AM radio remains a trusted lifeline.”

He also expressed gratitude to Bilirakis and Pallone for fostering bipartisan support for the bill and referenced the prior approval by the House Energy and Commerce Committee, which advanced H.R. 979 with a 50-1 vote in September 2025.

Public safety organizations have likewise endorsed the initiative. Groups representing firefighters, law enforcement, and emergency medical services have asserted that AM broadcasting can provide vital communication during emergencies when cellular or internet connectivity is compromised.

Pittman indicated that iHeartMedia will engage with Senate leadership and Senate sponsors Sens. Ed Markey (D-MA) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) as the legislative process continues in that chamber.

It’s important to note that the House vote alone does not enact the measure into law; the Senate’s approval is also required before it can be forwarded to the president.