The NAB is highlighting bipartisan progress for the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act as Congress returns from recess, pointing to an “August Surge” of support. Twenty additional House members joined as cosponsors during the break, bringing the total to 280, including Reps. Ryan Patrick of New York and Nicholas Begich of Alaska. The Senate version now has 61 cosponsors, enough to clear a filibuster.
NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt praised the momentum, saying the growing coalition “demonstrates a deep understanding that AM radio remains an essential lifeline for emergency alerts, local news, and community connection.” He urged House leadership to bring the measure to the floor quickly.
The Act, which would require automakers to include AM reception in all vehicles sold in the US, faces a crowded fall legislative calendar. The Senate version awaits scheduling by Majority Leader John Thune, while the House bill remains in the Energy and Commerce Committee under Chairman Brett Guthrie.
Complicating the outlook is the looming September 30 government funding deadline. Senate Republicans are pressing bipartisan appropriations bills, while House leaders favor a short-term resolution into November. The White House has countered with a proposal for a longer extension into 2026 to avoid repeated shutdown battles.
Tensions rose further when President Donald Trump issued a $5 billion “pocket rescission” of foreign aid, dividing Senate Republicans and adding friction to Thune’s efforts to negotiate bipartisan funding after the earlier cut that defunded the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.
To sustain momentum, NAB has launched public service announcements in English and Spanish urging listeners to text AM to 39179 to contact their lawmakers. The campaign stresses AM’s role in public safety and community service, pressing for passage despite competing priorities on Capitol Hill.