AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act of 2025
AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act of 2025
Plain Language Summary
# AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act of 2025 - Summary **What the bill would do:** This bill would require the Department of Transportation to create a rule making AM radio a standard feature in all new passenger vehicles sold in the United States. Currently, some newer cars—particularly electric vehicles—are being manufactured without AM radio capability. The bill would mandate that all new vehicles have easy-to-access AM radio receivers built in as standard equipment. **Who it affects and why:** The rule would apply to car manufacturers selling vehicles in the U.S. market.
Supporters argue this is important because AM radio is frequently used to broadcast emergency alerts, weather warnings, and Amber Alerts during crises when people may be without internet or cell service. Before the rule takes effect, manufacturers without AM radio would need to clearly label this fact for buyers. **Current status:** The bill (S 315) was introduced in the 119th Congress by Senator Edward Markey (D-MA) and is currently under review in committee. It has not yet been voted on or passed.
CRS Official Summary
AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act of 2025This bill requires the Department of Transportation (DOT) to issue a rule requiring AM radio capabilities to be standard in all new passenger vehicles. (AM radio is often used to deliver emergency alerts and news and entertainment programming; some newer vehicles do not include AM equipment.)Specifically, this bill applies to passenger vehicles (1) manufactured in the United States for sale in the United States, imported into the United States, or shipped in interstate commerce; and (2) manufactured after the rule's effective date. The rule must require all such vehicles to have devices that can receive signals and play content transmitted by AM stations or digital audio AM stations installed as standard equipment and made easily accessible to drivers.Prior to the rule's effective date, manufacturers that do not include devices that can access AM radio as standard equipment (1) must inform purchasers of this fact through clear and conspicuous labeling, and (2) may not charge an additional or separate fee for AM radio access.DOT may assess civil penalties for any violation of the rule. The Department of Justice may also bring a civil action to enjoin a violation.DOT’s authority to issue the rule expires 10 years after the bill’s enactment. Further, the Government Accountability Office must study and report on the dissemination of emergency alerts to the public, including by conducting an assessment of AM broadcast stations relative to other Integrated Public Alert and Warning System communication technologies.
Latest Action
Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 39.