This past Tuesday (9/15), the House overwhelmingly passed the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act, which would require the transportation secretary to issue a rule require the devices as standard equipment in new vehicles sold in the U.S.  Similar bipartisan legislation has been considered by Congress before, but stalled out. Lawmakers say there's a need for emergency broadcasts and other local programming to be available on the dial.

In a news release, NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt said, “Today’s decisive House passage of the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act is a significant step forward for the millions of Americans who rely on AM radio for lifesaving emergency information, trusted news and a vital connection to their communities.

America’s broadcasters are deeply grateful to House leadership, lead cosponsors Reps. Bilirakis and Pallone, and the overwhelming bipartisan coalition that made today’s vote possible. We look forward to continuing our work with the Senate bill authors and their more than 60 bipartisan cosponsors to advance this critical public safety legislation and send it to the president’s desk.”