House Passes Act Mandating AM Radio in New Vehicles

The United States House of Representatives passed the bipartisan AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act via voice vote on September 16, 2026. The legislation mandates that the Department of Transportation and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration require AM broadcast radio as standard equipment in all new passenger vehicles manufactured or imported into the United States for a period of 10 years, at no additional cost to consumers.

Supporters, including the National Religious Broadcasters, argue that AM radio is a critical lifeline for emergency information and local news, particularly in rural areas or during disasters when cellular and internet networks fail. The bill specifically targets a trend among electric vehicle manufacturers—including Tesla, Rivian, BMW, and Volvo—who have removed AM receivers due to electromagnetic interference from electric motors.

Opponents, such as the Consumer Technology Association and the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, argue the mandate is unnecessary and could increase vehicle costs. The bill now moves to the Senate, where companion legislation S. 315 has already been approved by the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee. Senators Ted Cruz and Ed Markey have secured over 60 cosponsors, meeting the threshold to overcome a potential filibuster. If passed by the Senate, the bill will require the signature of President Donald Trump to become law.