The “AM for Every Vehicle Act” is moving forward in the House of Representatives.
The legislation has been approved by a voice vote in a House Energy and Commerce subcommittee.
Sens. Ed Markey and Ted Cruz jointly applauded the development, calling it “another clear signal that millions of consumers are demanding broadcast AM radio remain in their vehicles. … We are glad that our House colleagues recognize the importance of the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act, and look forward to working with our colleagues to enact this critical public safety legislation into law.”
[Related: “AM Radio Bill Bolstered in House Despite Warring Testimonies“
Markey and Cruz recently said the AM bill has filibuster-proof support from more than 60 members of the Senate, and it has 254 House co-sponsors. Last summer the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee approved similar legislation by voice vote.
National Association of Broadcasters President/CEO Curtis LeGeyt also put out a statement: “America’s broadcasters are grateful to Reps. Gus Bilirakis, Frank Pallone, Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers, Jan Schakowsky and the bipartisan champions of this legislative effort for their leadership and commitment to preserving the indispensable role of AM radio in local communities across the country.”
The bill would require AM radio as a safety feature in all new vehicles.
In wake of the announcement, Gary Shapiro, CEO of the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), released the following statement:
“The Consumer Technology Association urges Congress to pursue a pro-innovation agenda,” said Shapiro. “Legislation that removes the protections of Section 230 threatens freedom of speech and the internet as we know it. Mandating AM radios in every car will hinder safety and entertainment innovations and increase production costs.
“While we continue to review the draft American Privacy Rights Act, federal privacy legislation should be clear in preempting state laws and protecting companies from frivolous litigation,” he continued. “Missing from subcommittee action this week is the SELF DRIVE Act, pro-innovation legislation to advance the American autonomous vehicle industry and save lives. ”
[Related: “House Bill to Mandate AM in Every Vehicle Gets a Timeline Update“]
