Cruz, Markey Refile AM Radio Vehicle Mandate Bill
Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Cruz, R-Texas, and Sen. Ed Markey, D-Mass., refiled their AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act Wednesday, as expected (see 2412180033). The measure, which the House Commerce Committee advanced last year, would require the Department of…
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Transportation to mandate inclusion of AM radio in future automobiles, a rule expected to mostly affect electric vehicles (see 2409180047). Cruz and other bill backers unsuccessfully attempted in December to attach it to a continuing resolution that extended federal appropriations through March 14. House Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade Subcommittee Chairman Gus Bilirakis, R-Fla., told us he plans to refile a House companion. Cruz said AM radio “is consistently the most reliable form of communication and is critical to keep millions of Texans safe.” Markey added that millions “of listeners across the country have made clear that they want AM radio to remain in their vehicles." NAB CEO Curtis LeGeyt and National Religious Broadcasters CEO Troy Miller praised Cruz and Markey for refiling the measure. “Time and again, AM radio has proven itself as an irreplaceable resource in emergencies, keeping families safe and communities informed when every second counts,” LeGeyt said. In Miller's statement, he said: “Further, its diversity of programming and reach remain unique amongst all audio media.” AM radio “uplifts, entertains, and informs listeners all over the country,” he said.