The auto industry would be required by federal rules to install A-M radios in new vehicles under a bill that’s cleared the U-S House.
Supporters say A-M radio provides an essential, free service and an important lifeline for broadcasting emergency information when cell phones and the internet aren’t working. If the bill becomes law, A-M radio would be classified as standard equipment in a vehicle and automakers would not be allowed to charge extra for it. A similar bill stalled in congress three years ago after industry giants like Ford, G-M and Toyota complainted about the cost of installing A-M receivers and argued the motors of electric vehicles interfere with A-M signals. The president of the National Association of Broadcasters says A-M radio provides listeners with trusted news and a vital connection to their communities. According to the most recent data from Nielsen Media Research, over 90 percent of U-S adults listen to the radio every month and 74 percent of people who commute listen to the radio while they’re driving.
The A-M Radio for Every Vehicle Act passed the U-S House Tuesday night by a voice vote. All four Iowans in the House were co-sponsors. The bill has been eligible for debate in the Senate since last year. Iowa Senators Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst are among its co-sponsors in the senate.
