“AM for Every Vehicle Act” highlights needs in rural areas.
Members of the Senate published a bipartisan bill to require American vehicle manufacturers to keep AM radio frequency receivers. After the legislation was announced, Ford CEO Jim Farley stated that the company will resume installing AM radio capabilities in their new cars, trucks, and SUVs.
Prior to the legislation being introduced, members of Congress voiced concerns regarding the plan by car manufacturers to remove AM radio from new vehicles and the need for it during emergency situations, particularly in rural areas. One of the bill’s sponsors, Senator Edward Markey of Massachusetts, commended Ford’s decision but pointed out that eight of the 20 major car companies have pulled AM functionality from their new vehicles.
“Ford’s reversal reflects an overdue realization about the importance of AM radio, but too many automakers are still going the wrong direction,” Senator Markey stated. He encouraged Congress to pass the bill, titled the “AM for Every Vehicle Act.”
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Senator Markey and his colleagues as they endeavor to keep AM radio receivers in new vehicles.
- For car manufacturers as they assess the importance of AM radio frequencies in emergency situations.
Sources: NBC News, NPR
