H.R.979 - AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 979, the "AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act of 2025," mandates that the Secretary of Transportation issue a rule requiring access to AM broadcast stations in all new passenger motor vehicles manufactured or sold in the United States. This includes ensuring devices capable of receiving AM signals are standard equipment. The bill also addresses labeling requirements for vehicles manufactured before the rule's effective date and includes provisions for a GAO study on emergency alert dissemination.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill would be to ensure that AM radio remains accessible in vehicles, regardless of technological advancements in infotainment systems. This could impact vehicle manufacturers, potentially requiring them to re-integrate AM radio receivers into models where they have been removed. It also aims to preserve a communication channel for emergency alerts and information.
Potential Benefits
- Ensures access to AM radio for emergency alerts through IPAWS.
- Preserves a traditional medium for news, information, and community programming.
- May support the viability of AM radio stations.
- Provides clear labeling for vehicles without AM radio during an interim period.
- Requires a GAO study to assess emergency alert dissemination methods.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased manufacturing costs for vehicles due to the mandated inclusion of AM radio receivers.
- Potential resistance from manufacturers who have moved away from AM radio in favor of digital technologies.
- Possible limitations on innovation in vehicle infotainment systems.
- The sunset clause after 10 years introduces uncertainty about the long-term availability of AM radio in vehicles.
- The bill may not address the evolving preferences of consumers who increasingly rely on digital audio sources.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's mandate on vehicle manufacturers could be viewed under the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3), as it regulates interstate commerce by setting standards for vehicles sold across state lines. The requirement for a GAO study and subsequent reports to Congress aligns with Congress's oversight responsibilities. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific individual rights or freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution or its amendments.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).