The House Energy and Commerce Committee advanced the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act on a 50–1 vote, but added an eight-year sunset that immediately drew sharp reactions from supporters and opponents. The bipartisan bill would require automakers to include AM receivers in all new vehicles.
Red Apple Media CEO John Catsimatidis criticized the change, calling AM “the backbone of the emergency alert system.” He said, “77WABC and all AM radio stations across the country provide life-saving information and emergency alerts to the public. while the committee’s action may be a step forward, a ridiculous last-minute change sunsets the law in eight years. the absurd eight-year sunset harms all Americans.” He urged leaders to adopt the Senate companion, S.315, which he said “is far superior and protects the American public,” and thanked Chairman Brett Guthrie, Ranking Member Frank Pallone, and Gus Bilirakis for steering the bill through committee.
On the other side, the Consumer Technology Association welcomed progress but argued the mandate remains burdensome. CEO Gary Shapiro said, “we appreciate the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s effort to reach a negotiated solution. however, the proposal falls short and risks imposing onerous mandates that could slow innovation. we look forward to continuing to work with the committee on pro-innovation policies that advance self-driving vehicles and artificial intelligence while ensuring consumer safety and access.”
With more than 300 House co-sponsors and 61 senators backing the companion measure, the legislation now heads to the full House for consideration.