In The News

AM Radio is an integral part of the daily lives of millions of Americans. Whether it’s at home, in the car, or at work, Michiganders tune in for the latest local news, their favorite sports team, and to stay up to date on the issues impacting our nation. More importantly, AM radio plays a vital role in America’s National Public Warning System, which provides emergency-alert and warning information to the public during major natural disasters, extreme weather conditions, or other emergencies impacting our country.

Recently, several auto manufacturers have taken steps to eliminate AM radios from their new vehicles. I believe this is a step in the wrong direction. In response to this, on June 30^th, I cosponsored H.R. 3413, the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act. This commonsense, bipartisan bill was introduced by my colleague Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ) and has companion legislation in the U.S. Senate.

The AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act would direct the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to issue a rule requiring automakers to maintain AM broadcast radio in their vehicles without a separate or additional payment, fee, or surcharge. Additionally, this measure would require any automaker that sells vehicles without access to AM broadcast radio before the effective date of the NHTSA rule to clearly disclose to consumers that the vehicle lacks access to AM broadcast radio.  And lastly, this bill would direct the Government Accountability Office to study whether alternative communication systems could fully replicate the reach and effectiveness of AM broadcast radio for alerting the public to emergencies.

As Southwest Michigan’s voice in Congress, I am always on the search for legislation that will make the Fourth Congressional District a better place to live, work, and raise a family. The AM Radio in Every Vehicle Act is a positive, commonsense measure that keeps Michigan residents updated for sports, news, and in case of emergency.

If you need help navigating a federal agency, please visit Huizenga.House.Gov or call my office in Holland at (616) 251-6741 or in Washington at (202) 225-4401 so we can assist you.