Understanding S1669: AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act of 2023

The AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act of 2023 is a proposed law that requires all car manufacturers to include AM radio receivers in every new vehicle sold in the United States. This means that whether you're buying a compact car or a large SUV, your vehicle will come with the ability to tune into AM radio stations. The bill is designed to ensure that drivers have access to AM radio, which is often used for broadcasting emergency alerts and important news updates. AM radio is known for its ability to reach long distances and penetrate areas where other forms of communication might not work as well, such as rural or mountainous regions. Car manufacturers will have a set timeline to comply with this new requirement. The bill outlines specific deadlines by which all new vehicles must be equipped with AM radio, giving manufacturers time to adjust their production processes. In addition to requiring AM radios in new cars, the bill also calls for a public awareness campaign to educate consumers about the benefits of AM radio. This campaign will highlight how AM radio can be a vital source of information during emergencies and how it can keep people connected to their communities.

The inclusion of AM radio in all vehicles is significant because it ensures that drivers have access to a reliable source of information, especially in emergencies. AM radio can provide critical updates during natural disasters, severe weather events, or other emergencies when other communication methods might fail. For many Americans, especially those living in rural areas, AM radio is a primary source of news and information. By making AM radio a standard feature in all vehicles, the bill ensures that these communities remain connected and informed. Everyday Americans will benefit from this bill as it enhances their safety and access to information. It also supports local AM radio stations, which are often small businesses that play a crucial role in their communities by providing news, weather, and entertainment.

- Emergency Communication: Supporters argue that AM radio is a reliable way to receive emergency alerts and important news, especially in areas where other communication methods may not be available. - Rural Access: AM radio reaches remote and rural areas where other forms of media might not, ensuring that all Americans have access to important information. - Cost-Effective: Including AM radios in vehicles is a low-cost way to enhance public safety and ensure access to information. - Preservation of Local Media: The bill supports local AM radio stations, which provide valuable services to their communities. - Technological Redundancy: Having AM radio as a backup ensures that drivers have multiple ways to receive information, even if other systems fail.

- Increased Manufacturing Costs: Opponents argue that mandating AM radios in all vehicles could increase manufacturing costs, which might be passed on to consumers. - Technological Obsolescence: Some critics believe that AM radio is becoming obsolete with the rise of digital and satellite radio, questioning the need for this requirement. - Consumer Choice: There is concern that the bill limits consumer choice by mandating a specific technology in all vehicles. - Environmental Impact: Adding AM radios to all vehicles could have environmental implications due to increased production and electronic waste. - Market Interference: Some argue that the government should not interfere with market decisions about what features are included in vehicles.