On September 15, 2026, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act, H.R. 979. The House version of the legislation would direct the Secretary of Transportation to issue a rule requiring that for approximately the next eight years, AM radio receivers are installed as standard equipment in vehicles manufactured in the U.S. or imported into the country. The bill has bipartisan support, with more than 315 co-sponsors in the House.
The NAB was quick to applaud the vote. “[Tuesday’s] decisive House passage of the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act is a significant step forward for the millions of Americans who rely on AM radio for lifesaving emergency information, trusted news and a vital connection to their communities,” NAB President Curtis LeGeyt said in a statement. “America’s broadcasters are deeply grateful to House leadership, lead cosponsors Reps. Bilirakis and Pallone and the overwhelming bipartisan coalition that made today’s vote possible.”
The Senate has pending legislation (S. 315), which also has bipartisan support, with 60 co-sponsors. The Senate Commerce Committee approved the legislation in April 2025; the next logical step is for the bill to make its way to the Senate floor.
