AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act of 2025

AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act of 2025

This bill would require that all new passenger vehicles sold in the United States include a working AM radio receiver — the same kind of standard AM radio that has been in cars for decades. In recent years, some automakers, particularly those producing electric vehicles, have begun removing AM radio from their cars, citing technical issues with electric motors creating interference with AM signals. This legislation would make it illegal to sell a new car in the U.S. without AM radio capability, effectively reversing that trend.

The bill is largely driven by public safety concerns. AM radio has long served as a critical part of the Emergency Alert System, the national network used to warn the public about natural disasters, severe weather, and other emergencies. Because AM signals can travel very long distances and do not rely on the internet or cell service, they can reach people even when other communication systems fail. Supporters argue that removing AM radio from vehicles creates gaps in emergency communication coverage, particularly in rural areas or during major disasters when other systems may go down.

This bill would primarily affect automobile manufacturers who would need to include AM radio hardware in any new vehicles they produce and sell in the U.S. It would also affect consumers who purchase new vehicles, ensuring they have access to AM broadcasts. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Department of Transportation would likely play a role in enforcing the requirement. The bill has moved through several congressional committees and appears focused on balancing modern vehicle technology with maintaining reliable public emergency communication.